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FORTY FORT — Call it a case of puppy love … although love for animals in general might better sum up the theme of the third annual Weekend Fall Festival at Edward’s Garden Center.
The two-day affair, which attracted visitors from all over Northeastern Pennsylvania, included children’s activities, food trucks, pony rides, puppet shows, live music, balloon artistry and a costumed pet parade. Some of the proceeds will be donated to the Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge.
Nick Kelly, wholesale manager for Edward’s said the fall festival is an opportunity to show appreciation to the community for its support during the year as well as help a good animal welfare organization.
“We try to make it a big family fun event for the weekend,” Kelly said. “We’re amazed at how many show up.”
Cordie Braun, fundraiser director for Blue Chip Farm, said the money donated by Edward’s every year is a boost to meeting the refuge’s $200,000 annual budget. Each year, Blue Chip adopts out about 800 pets that would have most likely been put down, otherwise.
“Without help from places like Edward’s, we could not continue,” Braun said. “There are so many pets out there that need homes,” she added.
On Saturday, two dogs were adopted at the festival, Braun added. The people who work at Edward’s have proven they care about helping animals and educating the public about the challenges abused animals face, she said.
And the festival was certainly a place for people who love to have fun with their pets. More than 30 animals sporting Halloween costumes — dressed as ghouls, dancers, superheroes and more — paraded through the center.
Donna and Shawn Casey won a gift certificate for their two dogs, Chloe and Shana, who won first place dressed up as a groom and blushing bride.
Jorge Rodriguez, of Hazleton, and his two young daughters, Mia and Nina, said they really enjoyed the pet parade. Nina loved the costumes and how friendly the animals and their owners were.
Blue Chip Farm also sold shirts, pet treats and other goods to passersby. Braun said the organization relies totally on donations and receives no grants or other funds.
The fall festival is way to showcase the garden center and the wide variety of plants, animals and merchandise available every day, Kelly said. Plus it ushers in a very busy fall season.
About 25 staff members helped with parking, clean-up and customer service.
Every weekend in the month of October, the center will sponsor more family activities, including a “Weekend Trails of Ghouls” and a “Kiddieland Funhouse and Corn Maze” to keep in the spirit of the fall season, Kelly said.
