By Ed Karvoski Jr., Contributing Writer
Hudson – Hudson Recreation presented its 22nd annual fall festival with a new name, as well as different hours and location. RECtober Fest (formerly Pumpkin Fest) took place Oct. 5 at the Riverside Park baseball field. As in past years, the five-hour event was packed with fun, family-friendly activities.
Over two decades ago, the festival began in attempt to outnumber the world record of carved pumpkins set in Keene, N.H. The local event’s early years featured numerous lighted jack-o-lanterns displayed on Morgan Bowl’s bleachers. Its focus evolved over the years to an opportunity for the public to interact with community groups.
This year’s festival got relocated to the baseball field because Morgan Bowl’s track is in the midst of resurfacing. Event hours began and ended earlier than dusk because Hudson is classified at high risk of the mosquito-borne EEE virus.
Festival-goers enjoyed games, giveaways and refreshments offered by nonprofit organizations, businesses and town agencies. Kids played on inflatable amusements and took pony rides. Live entertainment was provided by River’s Edge Arts Alliance’s a cappella group REHarmonix, the Frisbee-fetching Flying High Dogs, children’s musical performer Mister Vic and the rock and blues trio Workingman’s Band.
The festival’s usual fireworks were canceled when the event got rescheduled. A savings in the event budget prompted the recreation department to welcome RECtober Fest guests free of admission charge. Event sponsors were Avidia Bank, Hudson Cultural Council, Juniper Farms, Hudson Fire Local #1713 and Hudson Police Association.
photos/Ed Karvoski Jr.
