The center of Brentford was filled with happy playing children on Sat. Sept. 28th. They and their families were gathered for the annual Fall Family Festival. The event was sponsored by the Brentford Community Foundation.
Foundation board members Meagan Williams and Jessica Halvorson said that some planning went in to the occasion. The board was referred to as being “small but mighty.” They gave great credit to the community for its generosity.
Anyone could bring in a pumpkin to show. Pumpkin categories included biggest, smallest, and ugliest. There were also painted pumpkins. There were plenty of prizes to go around for the kids. These included Allevity Entertainment gift cards and pre-paid Visas, as well as pop and candy. Games included an egg toss, egg and spoon race, free throw contest, and football throwing contest.
The Pickled Pig food truck made the meal. Attendees were invited to bring along a pumpkin dessert to share. These included cookies, bars, and treat bags. At the end of the evening, there were also s’mores, popsicles, and glow sticks for the kids.

Though the center of town was filled, attendance was down a little. This was attributed to harvest, and other things going on. Williams noted that the town’s bar had recently closed. It had been the weekly meeting spot. This made community events even more important.
Halvorson said that the kids running around and playing basketball was “nice to see.” Williams said that the purpose of the festival was “so that the community could come and socialize, as families, not just adults.”
They explained that it all started when a resident started campaigning for new playground equipment for the city park. That person unfortunately passed on, but their legacy remained. Eventually the foundation and board were formed. They were set up to help foster community. They also do an Easter egg hunt, and light up the park for Christmas. The weekend after Thanksgiving, an event will be held in the park. Everyone is welcome to come watch the lights being turned on. Santa is set to make an appearance as well. Williams said “It’s turned out to be a really good thing for our community.” She said that anyone who was willing was welcome to volunteer to help with the community events, even if they didn’t live in Brentford.