Founder’s Harvest Festival activities at Carmichael Park include a pumpkin patch, local history displays, a petting zoo and dance presentations. The Oct. 11 event also marks Carmichael Park District’s 80th anniversary. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Two events this October will fill Carmichael Park with fall festivities.

The community will host Founder’s Harvest Festival celebrations on Oct 11. A week later, the park will honor some of the community’s beloved dogs.

Entertainers, vintage cars and children's activities will take over Carmichael Park on Oct. 18 to celebrate the old colony’s 116th birthday, continuing more than a century of tradition.

Previously known as Founders Day, the re-imagined festival incorporates fall flavor and family activities. Pumpkins are just the start. Barnyard critters will muzzle up for petting. Ambassador reptiles will slither in from Folsom City Zoo. Youth can also enjoy crafts and bounce castles.

Because Founders Day recalls a 1909 real estate venture by Daniel Carmichael, a hosted display will exhibit photo vignettes from early days.

Dance students will tip-toe through the pumpkins in celebration of the Harvest/Founders Day festival in Carmichael Park on Oct. 11. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

An additional anniversary is noted: Carmichael Recreation and Park District this month marks 80 years since its 1945 establishment. Centered on parkland created from old apple orchards on Fair Oaks Boulevard, the district was designed to serve Carmichael's rapid population growth after World War II.

The community’s largest vintage car show is part of the nostalgia. For a youthful contrast, on-stage performances will spotlight dance students.

Food trucks will offer refreshment and live bands will kick off dancing.

Masters and mutts will walk the following Saturday during the third annual Barktober fest.  To raise funds for Carmichael Dog Park, the Oct. 18 event promotes man's best friends and pet-oriented businesses.

The day of the dogs includes demonstrations by fearless police K-9s. All Stage Canine training owner Miranda Viani will showcase obedience techniques. A doggie dance contest is another highlight.

“Your pet doesn’t have to be Fred Astaire,” said organizer Rosie Buck. “It’s fine to dance with your dog in your arms.”

A fancy-dress parade for pets and owners is among Carmichael Park’s ‘Barktober’ festival events happening Oct. 18. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

The much-vaunted canine costume contest begins at 11:15 p.m. Fashion categories include best-owner-and-dog-duo and most-unique outfits. The “best dressed pet” division welcomes haute couture in domestic animals of any kind.

Merchant booths and food trucks are part of both weekend events.

Founder’s Harvest Festival (10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 11) sponsors include Mission Oaks and Carmichael Park districts, Carmichael Parks Foundation, Buck Family Automotive, Sacramento County Supervisor Rich Desmond, Cappuccino Cruisers Car Club, Carmichael Kiwanis and Carmichael Chamber of Commerce.

The Barktoberfest Festival (10 a.m. to noon Oct 18) is presented by the Carmichael Parks Foundation. Sponsors include Carmichael Park District, All Stage Canine Development, Buck Family Automotive and Kerri Mandes Fitness. 

Carmichael Park is located at 5750 Grant Ave. Learn about Carmichael Recreation and Park District community events at www.carmichaelpark.com.

Carmichael’s largest classic car show revs up at the Oct. 11 Founders/Harvest Festival. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner