As summer waves goodbye, the Cleveland Metroparks is gearing up to welcome fall with open arms and a truckload of activities for families. In a statement obtained by Cleveland19, the Metroparks CEO Brian M. Zimmerman heralded the return of the season's staple events, saying, "These two popular fall events are wonderful, free opportunities to engage in discovery and connect through hands-on learning."
Making a buzz on the first day of autumn is the 13th annual Touch-a-Truck event, slated for the Brookside Reservation. Having at its helm CrossCountry Mortgage, kids and the young at heart will have a chance to hop behind the wheel of approximately 50 gargantuan vehicles that keep the Metroparks in tip-top shape, reported Cleveland Metroparks News. The fleet includes the likes of front-end loaders, bulldozers, and none other than police cars; the event will run its engines from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on September 22.
As part of a broader palette of activities, Touch-a-Truck attendees are invited to dig into a 40-ton sandbox, catch a ride on the trackless train courtesy of Whistle Express Car Wash, and dialogue with costume characters. For those opting to extend their day's adventure, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is rolling out a $5 discount on admission for event-goers on the same day. The tracks lead to 3900 John Nagy Blvd., promising free parking to sweeten the deal.
Not far behind in the autumnal festivities is the FallFest, situated at the Brecksville Reservation's Meadows Picnic Area. According to a statement obtained by Cleveland19, this event is dressed to the nines with hayrides, pumpkin crafts, and even archery, newer additions to an already hearty lineup, including candle-making and blacksmith demonstrations. With its rhythm and soul, the festival will feature folk music and magic shows, ensuring guests from all walks of life celebrate the season from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Bounty does not stop there. Food and souvenirs are beckoning to be part of the family photo album at the FallFest, with free parking and shuttle service available to bridge the gap between the Brecksville Nature Center parking lot and the festival grounds. So, as the leaves begin their colorful descent, these Cleveland Metroparks events stand ready to embrace families with the warmest of fall welcomes.
