Parks’ fourth Harvest Fest includes bike rodeo Oct. 3

Published 11:06 am Thursday, September 10, 2009

CASSOPOLIS – Come for an evening of family, food and fun at the fourth annual Harvest Festival on Saturday Oct. 3, from 4 to 7 p.m., at Dr. T, K. Lawless Park southeast of Vandalia.

The park is nine miles southeast of Cassopolis, off M-60 and Lewis Lake Road.

Admission costs $3/person, with ages 2 years and younger admitted free.

The fourth annual Harvest Festival features:

• Park scavenger hunt (ages 2-11).

• Arden’s Choo-Choo rides.

• Horse-drawn hayrides.

• Owl Prowl.

• Pumpkin painting.

• Canines in Costume contest.

• Bicycle Safety Rodeo (must bring bicycle, bicycle helmet and tennis shoes; you must pre-register for this event at (269) 925-1137, x17.

The Canines in Costume contest is always good for a “howling good time.”

This popular event benefits the Cass County Animal Shelter.

Participants are asked to bring their dogs in costume.

A ribbon will be awarded to the “top dog.”

Pets must be on leash with proof of rabies vaccination and licensing.

To enter please bring one of the following: dry dog, puppy or cat food; cat litter; treats; toys; grooming supplies; dish soap; bleach; or a monetary donation.

The Bike Safety Rodeo, for ages 6-15 and adults who would like learn various skills regarding being a safe bicyclist, will be available to those who pre-register for this specific Harvest Festival event with Suzann Flowers at (269) 925-1137, x17, or at flowerss@swmpc.org.

The Bike Safety Rodeo provides an opportunity for bicyclists to have a helmet safety check and a training course to learn basic safety skills.

Participants for the Bike Rodeo must bring with them the following:

• Bicycle.

• Bicycle Helmet.

• Tennis Shoes.

• A parent/guardian for anyone under the age of 18.

Children and adults should arrive at the registration table by 2 p.m.

This event is sponsored by the Cass County Parks Department, Cass District Library, Cass County Conservation District and Southwest Michigan Planning Commission.