Mellody Farm Harvest Festival: A Day of Music, Food, and Family Fun on October 24

Celebrating Fall at Mellody Farm Harvest Festival

Mellody Farm is excited to bring the community together for its annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, October 24, where visitors can enjoy a full day of festive activities. From 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., the shopping center will be alive with the colors of fall, live entertainment, and delicious local foods.

This year’s event promises something for everyone, featuring a host of free activities during the day, followed by ticketed experiences in the evening. Guests are invited to kick off their harvest celebration by picking up a free Harvest Haul card at the check-in, which they can use to collect fall-themed stickers from around the center. By visiting participating retailers and restaurants, guests can complete their cards for a chance to win exciting prizes, including a two-night family getaway to Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa.

Enjoying Illinois Agriculture

A special highlight of the festival will be the Illinois Agriculture Urban Farm Zone, designed to promote local farming and gardening. From 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., attendees can participate in a free workshop titled “Winterizing Your Garden,” offering valuable tips on preparing gardens for the chilly months ahead. Seasonal treats will also be available, including a unique “Biscuits & Bloody Marys” pairing. Participants can learn from experts from the Lake County Farm Bureau and the University of Illinois Extension about sustainability and urban farming.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can enjoy entertainment throughout Mellody Farm. This includes face painting, balloon artistry, and photo opportunities with fun seasonal characters. Plus, visitors can meet Mellody Farm’s four-legged ambassador, Keenam, who will be making special appearances.

Yappy Hour: A Celebration for Our Furry Friends

The festival will highlight the furriest members of the family during Yappy Hour from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., sponsored by Lazy Dog. This pet-friendly event will feature fun activities such as a fall pet costume contest, giveaways, and a pet rescue and adoption event with PAWS Chicago. Owners and their costumed pets are encouraged to join a festive parade, showcasing their creativity and love for their four-legged friends.

Evening Festivities: Live Music and Tasty Treats

Come evening, the festival transitions into an exciting celebration with live music by Big Boss and the Toes, complemented by the Harvest Festival Bites & Sips experience. Guests can visit several food stations featuring offerings from local restaurants such as City Works and Mendocino Farms. Seasonal bites and beverages will be available for everyone to enjoy.

The Bourbon Bonfires will also kick off at 4 p.m., featuring tastings and curated flights of bourbon for aficionados and newcomers alike. Ticket prices for the Harvest Festival Bites & Sips experience are set at $35, while a combined package for both experiences is available for $55. Additional options include a designated driver ticket for $20 to ensure safe enjoyment of the evening.

Community Giving Initiative

In the spirit of giving, the Harvest Festival will launch Mellody Farm's seasonal community initiative, inviting guests to donate nonperishable food and clothing items to support local families and hunger relief programs.

As the festival draws to a close, the grand prize of the Harvest Haul will be announced at approximately 7:30 p.m., followed by an evening of continued shopping and dining.

Join us at Mellody Farm for this heartfelt celebration of community, food, and the spirit of fall. For more information about the festival and to secure your tickets, visit Mellody Farm’s website or check out the event details at omella.com.