Perry Township Fall Fest Welcomed in Fall
Perry Township in Clarion County welcomed fall in style during its annual Fall Fest, held
September 19th at the West Freedom Ballfield. It was a day packed with free, fun activities for people of all ages!
The VFW helped kick off the festivities with the opening ceremony. As our country celebrates its 250th birthday, the ceremony was conducted with class, pride, and reverence, providing a meaningful start to a wonderful community celebration.
The yearly crowd favorites returned once again. This year, attendees were able to shop from 32 vendors and enjoy 5 different food options throughout the day. Guests also tried their luck with more than 160 items available through the small- and large-item auctions. The Perry Township Events Committee is incredibly grateful for the generous donations received from businesses and citizens throughout Clarion County. Every year, the committee thinks the event can’t possibly get any better and every year, the community proves us wrong with its incredible generosity and support.
For the young and the young-at-heart, Bluey made two special appearances throughout the day. Children also enjoyed the “Kid Fun Zone,” which included face painting, bounce houses, and a variety of yard games.
A new addition this year was Charlie the Jester, who entertained the crowd with a magic show and created balloon animals for attendees. The committee is already hoping both Charlie and Bluey will return next year!
Pets were also plentiful at this year’s Fall Fest, with the annual weenie/doggie races and pet contests bringing plenty of smiles and laughs. 35 dogs and their families participated in the festivities.
A brand-new attraction this year was Chicken Poop Bingo. Attendees could purchase a square for their chance to win some money. Once all the squares were sold, a chicken was released onto the game board to choose the winning square. It was such a hit that Chicken Poop Bingo will be returning next year, along with the other popular pet events!
This year, two Perry Township residents were recognized for their contributions to the
community. Elliott “Pete” Callander was named the 2026 Citizen of the Year, while Jim Snyder was recognized as this year’s Special Honoree.
When Pete Callendar was born, there were questions if he would have a normal life due to medical issues. He has turned out pretty well. He loves his hometown of West Freedom, Perry Township and the people in and around it. He has a nickname for virtually everyone he has ever met. He patrols the streets and roads around West Freedom daily and keeps in touch with the guys at the township building and checks on his Aunt Elaine almost every day. He loves the Pittsburgh Steelers and can usually name any player if you give him a player’s jersey number. He loves his mama, his family, his dogs and cats along with his free ranging chickens. He likes to laugh and carry on like anyone else. The old adage goes early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise. If that’s the case, he’s health. He may not be wealthy, unless you’re talking about a wealth of friends and family. And he can be a wise guy at times too.
The second honoree, Jim Snyder, has been an important part of the Fall Fest planning committee for many years. He is well known for bringing the fan-favorite tractor show to the festival each year. Jim has also given countless hours and contributed in many ways to Perry
Township throughout his many years as a resident. His dedication and service to the community are greatly appreciated.
The arts were also well represented at this year’s Fall Fest. Local residents had the opportunity to showcase their talents through the annual photography contest as well as the new pumpkin carving and decorating contest. Congratulations to this year’s contest winners: Ava Crawford, Adalynn Burris, Candi Myers, Kim Callendar, Elliott Crane, and Alexander Crain! In the afternoon, music filled the pavilion throughout the afternoon as well. Carnival of Souls, featuring Irish and Celtic music, followed by Killin’ Time, who kept the crowd moving with their country music.
From the auctions and food vendors to the kids’ activities, pet contests, local artwork, music, and community recognition, this year’s Fall Fest was truly a celebration of everything that makes Perry Township special.
The Perry Township Events Committee would like to thank everyone who donated, volunteered, participated, attended, and helped make this year’s event such a tremendous success. The support of the community is what makes Fall Fest possible, and we are already looking forward to doing it all again next year!
Please mark your calendars for next year’s Fall Fest, scheduled for September 18, 2027!
For updates, announcements, and complete event details, search “Perry Twp/Clarion County Fall Fest” on Facebook and follow along as we begin planning another great community celebration.
