Farmington Celebrates the Autumn Season with Harvest Moon Festival
Farmington is gearing up for a fantastic weekend as it welcomes the Harvest Moon Celebration, a beloved annual event that marks the transition from summer to fall. This lively festival will take place from Thursday, September 19, to Saturday, September 21, at the picturesque Riley Park, conveniently located on Grand River Avenue east of Farmington Road. Now in its 19th year, this celebration has become a staple for locals looking for a fun-filled way to embrace the change of seasons.
A Journey Back in Time
The Harvest Moon Celebration originally spun off from a much larger summer event, the Farmington Founders Festival. The idea was to create an exciting autumn experience for the community. As Kate Knight, the executive director of the Downtown Development Authority, explains, “The festival was intended to give people something fun to do in the fall.” And boy, has it delivered!
What to Expect
Festival-goers can anticipate a weekend brimming with live entertainment, delicious food, and refreshing drinks. Tickets are quite affordable at just $8 if purchased in advance or $10 on the day of the festival. You can snag your tickets online at www.downtownfarmington.org or at various local spots including:
- The Vines Flower and Garden Shop
- Meadows Fine Wine & Liquor
- Farmington Brewing Co.
A Culinary Delight
When it comes to food and drink, attendees will be treated to a fantastic lineup. The event, designed for guests aged 21 and up, will feature over 40 craft beers and ciders, in addition to a selection of local wines. It’s a wonderful chance to taste the talents of local brewers while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.
Evening Entertainment
Evenings at the Harvest Moon Celebration promise to be lively, with entertainment kicking off at 7 p.m. each night. Here’s a sneak peek at the musical lineup:
- Thursday: Soul Xpress
- Friday: Main Street Soul
- Saturday: Da’Ja
Community Spirit
Interestingly, this festival wouldn’t be possible without the passionate involvement of the community. Over 100 volunteers are working hard behind the scenes, helping to transform Riley Park with charming fall decorations and setting the stage for a memorable experience. For those who might want to lend a hand, there are still a few volunteer spots available. Interested individuals can sign up through www.downtownfarmington.org.
Fun for All Ages
But the fun doesn’t stop at night! On Saturday, the Farmington Farmers Market will carry on with its regular hours from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Not only can you enjoy local produce, but there will also be a beer tent serving up those delicious craft brews.
Join the Celebration!
So gather your friends, grab your dancing shoes, and prepare for a weekend of fun! The Harvest Moon Celebration is a fantastic opportunity to mix, mingle, and savor the fabulous offerings of Farmington as we all say goodbye to summer and embrace the crisp, cozy days of fall.
