By Lauren Utecht | Herald Contributor

Pumpkins, prizes, music, and more. October brings about a harvest of fun fall events, and Norman Bird Sanctuary kicked off the month with their 43rd Annual Harvest Fair the weekend of Oct. 1.

Norman Bird Sanctuary is a property that has been dedicated to the protection of birds and environmental education since 1949. Every fall, they host their annual Harvest Fair, where thousands of families across Rhode Island gather to enjoy traditional autumn activities.

“The magic of the Harvest Fair is watching kids have a blast playing games that have been around for centuries,” said Lesley Muir, director of special events at Norman Bird Sanctuary.

There was something for everyone in the family to enjoy; the fair featured a variety of tents with face painting, pumpkin painting, nature-themed crafts and live animal presentations. There were also more than 70 artisans selling unique handmade items and a beautiful harvest of flowers, pumpkins, vegetables, and harvest-themed dishes on display.

Fair-goers were able to grab a drink and some food at the 15 food trucks offering an array of selections from Sweet B’s Donuts to Binge BBQ’s smoked brisket sandwiches, all while enjoying live music by a lively lineup of 13 bands and musicians throughout the weekend.

“It’s great to see the tradition live on with the new generation,” Muir said.

The proceeds of the 43rd Annual Harvest Fair support Norman Bird Sanctuary’s mission to preserve and protect their 325 acres of land and the birds who inhabit it.