The city is hosting its annual Harvest Festival on October 19 at Cedar Rose Park. This hearty celebration of the season features a spread of local foods, live music, and community engagement. This family-friendly event promises a day filled with fun activities and showcases Berkeley's commitment to sustainable living and local food culture.

The festival, organized by the City’s Parks, Recreation, and Waterfront Department, caps entry fees and makes competing in the food contests a free-for-all. Aspiring culinary maestros can register their homemade food online for the 2024 Food Contest, selecting from categories such as homegrown fruits and veggies and an array of baked goods. "All participants will receive recognition, and ribbons will be awarded in each category,"  according to the City of Berkeley's announcement. In the spirit of community, attendees are encouraged to bring their surplus crops for the festival's crop swap or share garden wisdom at the seed swap.

In true Berkeley fashion, the festival doesn't just stop at good eats. There's a "Kids Zone" with everything from ziplining and pumpkin decorating to a Tot Zone for the littlest ones, ensuring a packed day of fall fun. Live bands with diverse musical stylings are set to entertain visitors, with DJ spins in between. And for those with a penchant for sweet and savory, numerous food trucks and vendors will satiate your palate with offerings that include everything from desserts to BBQ, according to the City of Berkeley.

Looking beyond the edibles, the Harvest Festival also puts a lens on sustainability. The "Ride Electric,"  running concurrently, will allow you to get up close with electric cars and other sustainable transport options like e-bikes and e-scooters. Berkeley continues to promote environmentally friendly ways to arrive at such events, suggesting visitors bike using the Ohlone Greenway, take advantage of the free bike valet, catch a ride with AC Transit, or stroll over from the North Berkeley BART station.