New Canaan Nature Center hosts 42nd annual Fall Fair

Traditional Fall Fair activities will return this year to the New Canaan Nature Center's Fall Fair on Oct. 15. Activities include pony rides, a haunted woodland trail, apple sling shots, nature-based crafts, a hay maze, cupcake and pumpkin decorating, and fire engine rides on New Canaan's antique fire engine, Old Faithful. The giant bungee jump, one of last year's most popular attractions, will also be back along with the "Kids On The Go" obstacle course and other inflatable rides.

The Fall Fair will feature a wide range of entertainment throughout the day. The Moses Brothers band will entertain families with a live performance of their blues/bluegrass/rock music from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The fourth annual apple pie eating contest will begin at 3 p.m. with categories for youth and adults. There is an entry fee ($5 for youth and $15 for adults) and prizes will be awarded. Other live shows include birds of prey demonstrations, shadow puppet shows and story readings between 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

New this year will be an "Eco-Village," where attendees can learn about the latest products, services and businesses to help green their home, family and life. Participating Eco-Village sponsors/exhibitors include Alteris Renewables, BPC Green Builders, Going Green Landscape Lighting, Graze Delivered, Sunlight Solar Energy Inc. and Vinylume Inc. Renewal by Andersen.

A wide range of fresh foods will be available to purchase throughout the day, including grilled hot dogs, pulled pork and vegetarian sandwiches, pizza, hot soup and hot and cold beverages. A variety of homemade baked goods will be for sale courtesy of Nature Center volunteers.

Admission to the Fall Fair is free and parking is available at St. Mark's and the First Presbyterian Church. Tickets can be purchased for $1 each for the activities and food, which range from one to seven tickets. Attendees who wish to beat the crowds starting at 9 a.m. may join or renew their NCNC membership online for $65.

Community volunteers are essential to the success of the Fall Fair. More than 100 hours have already been contributed to help prepare new signage, repair games and build props and coordinate activities. Those interested in volunteering for a shift the day of the event or contributing to the bake sale should contact Aura Stutzman at astutzman@newcanaannature.org. The New Canaan Nature Center is a nonprofit organization that is an environmental education center and sanctuary dedicated to helping people of all ages better understand, appreciate and care for the world of nature. The annual Fall Fair helps raise funds to maintain and offer this community treasure admission-free to residents of New Canaan and the surrounding area throughout the year.

For more information about the Fall Fair visit www.NewCanaanNature.org or call 203-966-9577.