From the Aug. 28 Piedmont Recreation Department newsletter:
The Piedmont Recreation Department (PRD) is excited for the return of the Piedmont Harvest Festival on Sept. 27, now in its 28th year.
This year’s Harvest Festival (11:00 a.m – 3:00 p.m.) will feature all the fun events and activities you’ve come to expect as well as several new event activities we have added this year. The Piedmont Education Foundation (PEF) Carnival will be in full swing, the main stage will be jumping with the Jazz Festival, the food trucks will be fired up alongside the new and improved Farmer’s Market, and returning as the heart of the event will be the Piedmont Edibles Contest!
Edibles Contest
The edible contest has been a part of the Piedmont Harvest Festival since the very first event in 1998. This contest showcases the amazing diversity of fruits and vegetables grown in Piedmont, and the talent of our residents in preparing and preserving these products.
Featuring the best homegrown and homemade foods from Piedmont, the Edibles Contest is your chance to show off your culinary prowess.
To enter:
Create or grow your edible masterpiece
Complete an entry form and attach your label to your creation
Bring your item and entry form to Piedmont Community Hall on Sunday, Sept. 27 between 7:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Farmer’s Market (EXPANDED)
This year’s event features an expanded farmer’s market – local honey, flowers, vegetable starts, local skincare products and more.
Jazz Festival
Enjoy live music by local musicians on the Harvest Festival stage from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Watermelon Eating Contest
The Watermelon Eating Contest has become a crowd favorite at the event. The devouring takes place in front of the stage at 1:00 pm. Categories will be by age group (ages 2-102). Participants, young and old (there is an adult category), can sign up at the event.
Scarecrow Alley
This cherished tradition is an ideal group activity. It’s a wonderful chance to bond with other parents and students while raising funds for your school through a silent auction. Scarecrows can be crafted in any open space, and with any material. On the morning of the festival, they should be delivered to Piedmont Park and later transported to the winning bidder’s home at the end of the event.
You don’t need to be an expert to create a scarecrow with your kids. They can be made from straw or any other materials you have on hand. Whether you choose a classic stuffed-shirt design or something entirely original, it’s bound to be a memorable experience.
For additional information on building scarecrows, contact your school’s Parent Club.
Carnival and Cake Hop
There is something for everyone at PEF’s Harvest Festival Carnival. Join us for classic carnival games, Icees, cake hop, and more. One wristband gets you a little bit of everything.
Cake Hop: Step into the circle, hop to the music, and see if you’re the lucky winner of a sweet treat.
Click here to contribute a cake.
All proceeds from the Carnival and Cake Hop will be donated to Beach, Havens, and Wildwood elementary schools.
Volunteers Needed: We need your help to make this event a success. If you’re interested in volunteering, please sign up—ADULTS and TEENS
Carnival wristbands and Cake Hop tickets will go on sale on the Piedmont Store approximately one week before the event. You may also purchase them at the event.
Food Trucks
Enjoy a wide array of delicious options from one (or more!) of seven different savory and sweet food truck options.
Community Tables
If your community organization would like to have an informational ‘harvesty’ and interactive table at the event, please fill out an interest form.
Volunteer Opportunities
The Harvest Festival is one of Piedmont’s most anticipated events of the year…and it simply would not be possible without the help of our volunteers. Help out on our “Green Team”, at the Edibles Contest, Watermelon Eating Contest or the general event. Morning and afternoon shifts available.
Contact Recreation Supervisor Eva Phalen (ephalen@piedmont.ca.gov) to learn more about volunteer opportunities at the event.