Falloween Fest returns to John Glenn High School for 18th year

The 18th annual Falloween Fest at John Glenn High School returns this weekend, running Friday through Sunday with a packed schedule of parades, food, family entertainment, and community tradition.

What began as a search for a better way to fundraise has grown into one of the area' s most anticipated fall events. According to organizers, Falloween Fest was started after high school teachers who had been fundraising to provide scholarships for graduating seniors sought a better way to raise money. They asked Principal Will Morton for ideas, and he came up with the festival.

The concept has proven remarkably successful. Proceeds from Falloween are awarded each year to graduating seniors who have volunteered with the fundraiser over their years in high school. To date, over $ 700,000 has been raised for student scholarships, and more than 470 students have been awarded scholarships thanks to Falloween Fest.

Falloween opens Friday at 4 p.m. and runs until 10 p. m. The Grand Parade begins at 5 p.m. on Van Buren Street and continues to John Glenn High School. Craft vendors, a giant garage sale, the midway, free entertainment, and food will be available throughout the evening.

Friday night' s menu highlights include homemade apple dumplings, homemade soups by Ma & Pa Craw, and a pork chop and pulled pork dinner.

Saturday' s fun begins at 8:30 a.m. with a 5K run and a 1-mile fun run at Walkerton Elementary School. The famous potato donuts will be ready at 9 a.m., and the craft vendors, midway, garage sale, entertainment, and more great food continue until 10 p.m.

Saturday' s food options include pulled pork sandwiches, ribeye steak sandwiches, beef brisket, and the Tyner Odd Fellows fish fry. The night closes with a spectacular fireworks show sponsored by R & B Car Company.

Sunday's festivities begin at 10 a.m. and continue until 4 p.m. The day includes more food — including the chicken and noodle dinner in the cafeteria — along with entertainment, the midway, a car cruise- in, a petting zoo, and a children' s tractor pull.

Now in its 18th year, Falloween Fest continues to combine community fun with a lasting mission: supporting graduating seniors as they take their next steps.