Fall festivities were in full swing Saturday at Mildale Farm in Edgerton.

A variety of free activities put on by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District were available for visitors at the county-owned property, including catch-and-release fishing, a hayride, a pumpkin patch, crafts and more.

Overland Park resident Elizabeth Hall had come to last year’s festival and enjoyed it so much
that she and her kids came back.

“I love how immersive it is. They let the kids do the sirens (in police cars and fire trucks) and
fully climb into things. There’s a kindness here. You’re able to relax here,” she said. “I would
pick this fall festival over any other.”

Though there was rain earlier in the morning, it finished in time for people to have fun with the
festival.

“It’s been really kid-friendly. It’s a perfect Halloween day for this,” said Amanda Douglas of
Olathe.

With Halloween in mind, plenty of candy was available, and lots of kids wore their costumes.

Down at the fire pit, kids could roast marshmallows and then listen to a story about animals. To
get up close with animals, there was also a petting zoo with a variety of creatures including
goats, pigs, rabbits and a camel.

Stilwell resident Molly Gall was amazed to see her 9-year-old son, Peter, catch a fish the
first time he cast a line into the farm’s pond. She said when her husband has taken Peter fishing,
it can take hours for them to get a bite.

“I’m happy to be here on finally a cool fall day with my kiddo,” Gall said.

Live music from Konza Swamp Band was also on the day’s activity list.

Olathe resident Deepikaa Subramaniam came as part of a group with her daughter’s daycare.

“It’s just beautiful. It’s awesome. They’ve set up all these events for kids, and it’s free,” she said.