Above / Hosted by folks from First Community Financial Bank, the Petting Zoo has become a popular attraction at the annual Naperville Plaza Fall Festival. The family event is held inside and outside throughout the shopping destination at Washington at Gartner. (PN File Photo)
The 5th Annual Naperville Plaza Fall Festival will be held from 10AM to 2PM on Sat., Oct. 29, 2016, at Naperville Plaza.
With trick or treat opportunities, rain or shine, families with youngsters in Halloween costumes will delight in scheduled entertainment throughout the popular shopping destination, all protected by the overhang the helps keeps the sidewalks dry and spirits bright in the event of inclement weather.
As special treats, Magician Josh T. Magic will show his tricks.
The Balloon Twister is sure to dazzle spectators as he turns long, skinny balloons into colorful works of art.
And the Petting Zoo hosted by First Community Financial Bank returns where kids can get up close and personal to many animals they likely don’t have a home.
Casey’s Grilling will offer luncheon fare for purchase outside on the patio. Inside, Casey’s will have an in-store drawing.
Again, youngsters  will find opportunities to tour a fire truck, police car and ambulance, a highly attractive activity every year. Parents are asked to prepare their children in the event first responders are unable to attend at the last minute due to emergency calls.
“The Naperville Fire Department has committed to 1 to 2PM,” said Mary Jane Leisten of First Community Financial Bank.  “Of course, that’s if their emergency schedule permits…  We certainly don’t want any children to be disappointed if the equipment isn’t here during their visit.”
Also, Dr. Meredith Gantos D.D.S. will be participating in Operation Gratitude. Operation Gratitude is an initiative to buy back unopened Halloween candy to send to military men and women serving overseas.Â
“Dr. Gantos will be buying back any unopened candy from 8AM to 7PM on Mon., Nov. 7 and Tues., Nov. 8, for $1 per pound up to 5 pounds per child,” explained Leisten. “During the candy drop off the children can draw a picture for the troops that will also be sent with the candy.”
Dr. Gantos’ dental office is located at 8 W. Gartner Road, Suite 168, in the Plaza.
Inside Oswald’s Pharmacy youngsters will find creative activities amid seasonal decorations. Costumed Halloweeners might even have a chance to meet owner Bill Anderson who might share a tale or two about the days when he dressed up to trick or treat in Naperville.
As the autumn event has grown, families can count on thoughtful treats and activities where youngsters can have fun while learning valuable tips on safety to remember for a lifetime.
Beyond the activities this Halloween weekend, Naperville Plaza is a popular shopping destination featuring many independent merchants, Â located on the southwest corner at Washington and Gartner.
