Thousands are expected to fill Laurel Acres Park the morning and afternoon of the event.
It’s September once again in Mt. Laurel, and with it comes cool air, kids back in school and the return of Mt. Laurel’s annual Fall Festival and 5K Run/Walk on Sept. 16.
As with events in past years, thousands of Mt. Laurel residents and locals from neighboring towns are expected to fill Laurel Acres Park the morning and afternoon of the event to enjoy food, fun and time together with family.
According to acting township manager Meredith Tomczyk, last year’s event brought about 20,000 visitors to Laurel Acres Park for a day of fun.
“It’s just a way to get involved in the community, and it’s a way for the township to give back to the community,” Tomczyk said.
Tomczyk said this year’s event, starting at 11 a.m., would feature an opening ceremony by the Lenape High School band, the Mt. Laurel Police Department’s color guard and local Boy Scouts.
Once the event gets underway, Tomczyk said throughout the day spectators can see performances by cheerleaders from Lenape High School, Amerikick Karate, Mainstream Dance Academy, Kaizen Martial Arts, Dansations School of Dance, Hope Church Choir, CORE Academy of Movement and more.
The festival will also feature a demonstration by the Mt. Laurel Police Department and its K-9 unit at noon, followed by a presentation from the Mt. Laurel Fire Department to demonstrate how the department can cut open vehicles to rescue trapped victims.
For those looking to grab a bite to eat, just some of this year’s food vendors include Cannoli World, Chick-fil-A, Mr. Softee, Taste of Philly, popcorn, Italian ice and more.
Tomczyk said parents can also purchase a $10 wristband for their children to go on any rides, with this year’s event to also feature bounce houses, pony rides, an area to decorate pumpkins and teddy bear making.
“It’s a great family fun day, and it’s a great way to spend time at the park. It’s just a nice day to walk around,” Tomczyk said.
Anyone wanting to burn off some energy before the fall festival can also head to Laurel Acres the morning of the event for the township’s annual 5K Run/Walk and children’s “Fun Run.”
With registration opening at 7:30 a.m. and the 5K Run/Walk starting at 8:30 a.m., those who sign up will follow along a path featuring asphalt, dirt, grass and more all within the boundaries of Laurel Acres.
According to Tomczyk, 5K runners will be awarded for top-three males and top-three females in each of the race’s age groups.
At 8:15 a.m., kids ages 6 and under can also have some fun with the 200-yard Fun Run as well.
For more information on the 2017 Mt. Laurel Township Fall Festival & 5K Run/Walk, reach out to the Mt. Laurel Township Parks and Recreation Department by calling (856) 234–0001 ext. 1220 or through email at [email protected].
Registration for the 5K is $20 to be mailed to the township before the event, or $25 on the day of the run. Registration forms can be located on the township’s website at www.mountlaurel.com.
This year’s rain date for the festival is Sunday, Sept. 17.
