Let the fall games begin, and continue

story and photos by Linda Kaufenberg

Despite the nasty, rainy weather crowds gathered in the Fort Smith and Van Buren areas at numerous festivals and events.

Two of those activities were the Fall Festival in downtown Van Buren and Oktoberfest at Columbus Acres in south Fort Smith.

FALL FESTIVAL
Historic Main Street was crowded with vendors and spectators for the 28th annual Fall Festival in Van Buren. Overcast skies and a Razorback football game did not deter people from attending the festival. The event is sponsored by a non-profit merchant’s association whose members are business owners in the Downtown Historic District.

More than 200 exhibitors displayed artwork, handcrafted items, antiques, collectibles and flea market finds. Jewel of the Amazon featured natural jewelry made by a women’s group in Bolivia.

"These pieces are made from large and small seeds and coconuts — all natural materials," Denisse Jones said. "The proceeds will go back to the women in Bolivia."

In addition, a carnival by All American Amusements offered rides and games of chance for children and adults. The smells of roasted pecans, kettle corn, barbecue, corn dogs and onion strings drifted along the streets and reminded everyone of fall.

OKTOBERFEST
There was something for both children and adults at the 23rd Annual Oktoberfest sponsored by the Knights of Columbus and a fundraiser for The Gregory Kistler Treatment Center. Held at Columbus Acres, it featured authentic German food and music. Alpen Musikanten was the featured band Friday and Saturday nights.

Games for the kids included Go Fish, Flip the Beanie, Face Painting, Penny Pumpkin Toss and more. Arts, crafts and food vendors added to the event. Adult games and a great raffle featuring two tickets on Northwest Airlines to anywhere in the United States added excitement.

FALL FESTIVAL PHOTOS