On Saturday, Oct. 3, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. West Hartford hosted the new ‘Fall for Park Road’ community festival in the Park Road neighborhood. 

By Kate Levine

The inaugural “Fall for Park Road” festival was built off the old tradition of the Park Road Parade, celebrating local businesses, residents, and character of Park Road.

The event spanned from late morning into the afternoon. Businesses were filled with customers, and many had free samples of their products. AC Petersen Farms was offering free samples of their ice cream, and had live musicians outside to set the mood.

Live musicians playing live music outside AC Petersen Farms. Oct. 3, 2026. Photo credit: Kate Levine

Outside AC Petersen wasn’t the only live music, though, there were many other live performers scattered throughout the street. Outside Playhouse on Park there was a tag sale, and there were some performers singing well known songs from musicals. Just down the road, there was a man playing on a lap guitar and singing by a group of tents representing different organizations.

Musician playing lap guitar under a tent. Oct. 3, 2026. Photo credit: Kate Levine

“We love it” was the response given when River Bend Bookshop employees were asked if they enjoyed their new location. River Bend Bookshop recently moved just down the road from their old location, which they had been at for several years prior. Similarly, the employees of Shamrock Tattoo Company just down the street moved in recently and are also enjoying the area. 

There was also a trolley going up and down the street stopping at the designated spots. The trolley was definitely a successful idea, as many families were using it so they wouldn’t have to walk all the way up and down the road. The idea was so great even Spider-Man was seen getting off!

Spider-Man getting off the ‘Fall for Park Road’ Trolley. Oct. 3, 2026. Photo credit: Kate Levine

There was a grand turnout of families and many little kids were there having a fun time, whether they got to try some free chocolate or ice cream samples, or get free temporary tattoos. Strollers were parked all throughout the sidewalks and there were numerous kids running free – figuratively not literally. Parents did have eyes on their children at all times.

Luckily, the road didn’t need to be closed for this event, which avoided causing unnecessary traffic. There were multiple places for people to cross the street safely with the cars, and all drivers were cautious and respectful of pedestrians. 

Parents and children walking down the sidewalk. Oct. 3, 2026. Photo credit: Kate Levine

It was a perfect fall day in regards to the weather. There was a crispness in the air, but it was still warm enough for a t-shirt and shorts. The festival was a fantastic celebration of fall and hopefully will continue to be as amazing in the years to follow.

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