It’s Fall!

The first crisp fall breeze, the smell of cinnamon, and brightly colored pumpkins dotting front porches and lawns can only mean one thing – we’ve made it to fall. Officially the first day of fall is September 23, but after this long, hot brutal summer we all just experienced; the “cooler” fall weather is a welcome change.

I will admit, living in the Houston area, we do not get to experience fall as others in the country might, but it’s my favorite season. I love everything that is pumpkin-flavored including the popular pumpkin spice lattes and there are plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy outside since it is finally just a tad bit cooler.

Since we’re on the topic of fall, there are a few interesting facts you might NOT know about fall such as the autumn equinox is different each year, autumn was once known as “harvest,” and that bobbing for apples was a British invention. Also, did you know that when you notice leaves that are purple and red, that’s caused by the “anthocyanins” pigment, which is only produced in the fall when sugars are trapped in the leaves. Lots of dry weather and sunlight will lead to more sugar in the leaves, meaning the leaves will be brighter red.

Now that it is a little bit cooler outside and some trees have begun to change color, there are several events throughout the community to enjoy as a family.

EMCID’s Tricks & Treats Fall Fair

Saturday, Oct. 21, 10 a.m. – 4 pm

22296 Market Place Dr., Ste. 100, New Caney, TX

This is a FREE event for the whole family to enjoy. Shop local vendors at the market, walk through a haunted house, choose from 2,000 pumpkins, watch live performances, participate in a pie-eating contest and costume contest, and more.

The Kingwood Oktoberfest

Saturday, Oct. 21, 11 am – 5 pm

Holy Comforter Lutheran Church

1901 Woodland Hills Dr., Kingwood, TX

The Kingwood Oktoberfest will once again feature German-inspired fare such as bratwurst, sauerkraut, pretzels, and polka music from The Texas Sound Check Band. They will have beer from DECA Beer Company. There will also be a DJ, a costume contest for adults and children, and games and activities for all ages.

BOOFEST Kingwood

Saturday, Oct. 28, 4 pm – 9 pm

Kingwood Town Center Park

8 N. Main St., Kingwood, TX

Enjoy seasonal shopping and culinary delights along with a FREE mini pumpkin patch, trick-or-treating, trackless train rides, and more!

The Village Centers is excited to announce the 2023 “Enchanted Forest” Gala, will be held on Saturday, October 7th at the Houston CityPlace Marriott at Springwoods Village, located in The Woodlands.

As always, proceeds from the Enchanted Forest Gala will benefit The Village Centers’ mission to enhance the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and support them in reaching their full potential.

This year’s gala will honor local community and business leaders Pat and Ray Guard, who are loyal supporters of The Village Centers and have been instrumental in the growth of the Kingwood community. Co-chaired by Kim & Greg Fazzino, Joan & Ralph Imperato, and Layna & Mike Netek, the Enchanted Forest Gala will include silent and live auctions offering many coveted items, as well as fantastic food and drink at the new venue. The event will also feature entertainment by a stellar five-piece live band, Flight of the Keys, known for their dynamic and energetic performances. The Village Centers is one of the only organizations in the Northeast Houston area available to provide such a broad range of support and resources for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and is a lifeline to the families who depend on the organization for their physical, mental, and financial well-being.

The Village currently serves approximately 200 clients through a day-program, engaging outings and activities, residential living facilities, vocational training programs, and more. These programs are designed to help Villagers expand social and life skills, personal wellness, job skills, and critical thinking – all while becoming more involved in the community and securing meaningful employment whenever possible.

The Enchanted Forest Gala is an exciting opportunity to support The Village Centers and be a part of their transformational work. Make a difference in the lives of individuals with IDD and their families by attending the gala, being a sponsor, or participating in the silent auction, made available to the public via mobile bidding.

For tickets, sponsorships, silent auction registration, and more, visit www.thevillagecenters.org/2023gala or contact Claire Brown, Development Manager, at cbrown@villagelac.org or 281-358-6172.

The Village Centers’ mission is to enhance the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and support them in reaching their full potential.