DOWNERS GROVE – Giving people something fun to do on a beautiful day is how Dawn Hartman described the Downers Grove Harvest Fest. This year's event will be the fourth annual fest.

The event will be from noon to 7 p.m. Sept. 28 in Fishel Park, 1036 Grove St.

Hartman, who is the Downers Grove Park District director of marketing and communication, said there are a number of new things coming to this year’s event.

“We’re really excited about the entertainment lineup this year,” Hartman said. “We really upped the entertainment, and there’s a good mix of genres for everybody to enjoy.”

Chicago classic rock cover band ARRA will headline the event, along with a performance from Suburban Cowboys, a country cover band, a news release stated. Hartman said that in between those sets a DJ will play music and provide activities for children.

Hartman also said the park district is excited to bring in Glowby the Bubbler for a unique hourlong performance.

“It’s important to us to continue providing new things for people to enjoy while keeping things that we know were already popular from previous events,” Hartman said.

Other new additions include a pumpkin decorating contest, food vendors and Oktoberfest beers. The pumpkin carving contest will be judged based on designated age groups, and Hartman said it is intended to be an invitation for older children to return to the event. Sponsors of the Harvest Fest will judge the pumpkins, choosing winners from each group, she said.

For those interested in alcoholic beverages, Hartman said the Oktoberfest beer menu has expanded. Beer won’t be the only thing on tap at the event, she said, as ciders will be served on tap, allowing people who may not want an alcoholic beverage to explore drinks as well.

“I’m excited we’re serving cider as a tap beverage this year,” Hartman said. “It’s a fun way for those people who want to try something different to enjoy a drink.”

The Harvest Fest is free, and Hartman said attending is a great way to be part of the community and see the impact of events on local businesses.