Get ready for a delightful autumn celebration as the Ashfield Fall Festival returns to the charming town of Ashfield, Massachusetts on October 12 and 13, 2024. This annual event will run from 10 am to 5 pm both days, offering visitors a perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the fall season and the warmth of community spirit.
Arts and Crafts
The festival showcases the talents of local artisans and craftspeople, with over 50 exhibitors displaying their handmade creations. Visitors can explore a diverse array of crafts, including jewelry, woodwork, glassblowing, pottery, textiles, basketry, musical instruments, furniture, and paintings. This is an excellent chance to find unique, locally-made gifts or to simply appreciate the skill and creativity of the region's artists.
Fall Festival Food
Food is a central part of the Ashfield Fall Festival experience, with a wide variety of local organizations and vendors offering delicious seasonal treats. Festival-goers can look forward to:
- Blueberry cobbler from St. John's
- Apple cider donuts from the Boy Scouts
- Kielbasa grinders from the Hilltown Snowmobile Club
- Corn chowder and sandwiches at the Congregational Church
- Chili from the Ashfield Rod and Gun Club
- Apple pie with cheese at Town Hall
Additional food options will be available at Elmer's, The Community Hall, and The Ashfield Hardware Store. The festival encourages sustainability by asking visitors to bring refillable water bottles and shopping bags, with water bottle filling stations available on-site.
Entertainment and Activities
Throughout the weekend, various entertainers will perform, adding to the festive atmosphere. This year’s entertainment lineup includes the Hilltown Ham Hocks, Ashfield Community Band, DiTrani Brothers, Fiery Hope Chorus, and more.
One of the festival's highlights is the array of games, all made by kids for kids. These homemade games include rope ladders, pirate’s toss, catapults, marble mazes and more.
History and Community Impact
The Ashfield Fall Festival began in 1970 and has grown into a cherished community event over the past five decades. Originally started as a fundraiser for a college scholarship fund, the festival continues to support local students through parking donations and vendor contributions.
The event typically attracts visitors from around the region, significantly boosting the population of this small town of about 1,700 residents. It serves as a major fundraising opportunity for various local organizations and showcases the strong community spirit of Ashfield.
As you plan your visit to the 2024 Ashfield Fall Festival, prepare for a weekend filled with art, food, entertainment, and the warm embrace of small-town charm amidst the beautiful fall foliage of western Massachusetts. Learn more at ashfieldfallfestival.org.
Photo Credit: Ashfield Fall Festival Facebook Page
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