The weather is getting cooler, the leaves are starting to turn colors and the South Side Fall Festival is coming soon. These are all signs of the seasons changing.
The annual event, which is celebrated in south St. Joseph, always falls on the third weekend in September. This year the event opens Friday night September 20 and includes a spectacular fireworks display followed the next morning by everyone’s favorite, the annual parade. Floats, bands and royalty will march down Kill Hill Avenue and kids will be delighted with large amounts of candy thrown along the parade route.
After all the candy has been collected, festival goers can head over to Hyde Park to enjoy food, crafts, live entertainment and more!
The event, which is run by volunteers, celebrated 30 years in 2018. The family friendly event hasn’t changes much over the years. They know what works and they’re not going to change it. And those on their Facebook page agree. “By far this is the best festival in the area. Great food, music, vendors and atmosphere.” said one festival attendee.
The weekend before the festival there is a royalty contest for kids ages 4-17 and a baby contest for youngsters from birth – 24 months that is held on Sunday, the weekend of the festival.
The South Side Fall Festival holds a special place in the hearts of many. It’s a homecoming for some. “I always try to attend the festival, which is like ‘going home again’. As a graduate of Benton High School and a teacher at Hosea, I am able to catch up with those I have not seen in a while,” said one south side resident.
If you want family friendly fun, festival food and a welcome to fall, head down to the South Side Fall Festival this weekend. We can’t wait to eat some delicious kettle corn! We’d love to hear what your favorite thing about the South Side Fall Festival is!