County Executive Rich Fitzgerald today announced that the county will again have a full fall line-up of events including a concert series, Hay Day, movies in the park and more. The series will kick off on Saturday, September 16 with the Good Karma Band performing at 2 PM at the Yakaon Shelter in Harrison Hills Park. Hay Day, Campfire Ghost Stories, Movies in the Park, Trunk or Treat, and Punkin’ Chunkin’ round out a full fall schedule.
“When I took office in 2012, I challenged Parks and Special Events to have something happening in our parks all 365 days of the year. Over the last 12 years, they have met and exceeded that goal,” said Fitzgerald. “The team has taken what have been traditional summer events and expanded programming year-round. I’m grateful for the work they’ve done and excited to see everyone in our parks enjoying these events.”
The Fall Concert Series will span several county parks with residents encouraged to bring their chairs or blankets to enjoy free music. Visit Harrison Hills, Boyce, White Oak and Round Hill parks while hearing from great local talent.
Hay Day has become an annual tradition where families can enjoy hayrides, inflatables, face painters, balloon artists, a puppet show, magician, barnyard petting zoo, games, giveaways and more. Food, beverages, and snacks are available for purchase from local food trucks and vendors. The event is held in both Hartwood Acres and South parks.
As Halloween approaches, events turn to several that go bump in the night. Campfire Ghost Stories, held throughout October, offer a chance for kids of all ages to hear spooky stories and songs by the glow of a roaring campfire. Wear a Halloween costume for a chance to win a prize.
Car cruises become Trunk or Treat events with participants encouraged to pass out candy and treats to kids and families that attend. Participants are encouraged to decorate their vehicles and dress up in their best Halloween costumes.
Fan-favorite Hocus Pocus – the original one – is the Halloween Movie in the Park this year. The show starts at dusk. Bring chairs or blankets and enjoy the story of the Sanderson sisters.
And last, but not least, who doesn’t love Punkin’ Chunkin’? Join the Parks and SHARP Robotics from the Sarah Heinz House as they launch pumpkins across the amphitheater field with a full-size trebuchet. Enjoy crafts, games, activities, and family fun including face painting, balloon art, and medieval sword fighting. Food and beverages will also be available for purchase from local food trucks.
To get free notifications about concerts and other activities in the parks, sign up for Allegheny Alerts at www.alleghenycounty.us/alerts. Once you have created an account, you can choose the topics you want and how you want to receive the information (email, text, voice) and where you want to receive it (home, work, cell). You can change the information and topics at any time by logging into your account and modifying your choices. It’s a great way to keep up to date with changes due to weather or other considerations as well.
All events are rain or shine, except the movies due to the equipment used. Visit https://alleghenycounty.us/specialevents for more information.
