The Harvest and Horses Festival is coming back to John R. Park Homestead on Oct. 18. Families are invited to experience the 1850s-style event. “This festival celebrates many of our local fall traditions,” said Kris Ives, homestead curator and education coordinator. “For early settlers, harvest was one of the most important times of the year, providing a chance to reap the rewards of their hard work and prepare for the long winter ahead. Horses were central to harvest activities in the time of John and Amelia Park. This event celebrates autumn and the horses that made harvest possible almost 200 years ago.” From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., guests can explore the vintage festival, with interpreters dressed for the times. There will be a variety of outdoor stations, like cider pressing, sausage stuffing, seasonal crafts, pony rides, traditional games, and pioneer demonstrations. Visitors are also invited to meet horses and their owners and test skills on the Hobby Horse Agility Course. Kids can partake in the pony rides for $5 each. At 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., the Parade of Horses will take place, featuring over 15 horse breeds. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for kids three to 12, and $6 for seniors 65 and older. A family rate is available for $30, allowing up to six people in. More information and tickets are available on the Essex Region Conservation website.
