CRESTLINE, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW) – As school resumes and fall approaches, the Crestline Harvest Festival is set to bring joy and excitement to the community. The festival will take place on September 12, 13, and 14 along Thoman Street (Ohio 61) from Main Street to Bucyrus Street. The festivities kick off at 5 p.m. on September 12 with an opening ceremony on the main stage.

“Our committee has been gearing up for this one,” said Clayton Herold, director of the festival committee. “We’re celebrating 50+ years of the festival this year and sporting a new logo in recognition of that.”

Despite the new logo, many fan-favorite activities will return this year. Bulldog Backers, combined with Alumni Night, will take place at 6 p.m. on September 13 at The Hub. This annual fundraiser for the Crestline Athletic Boosters and Crestline Youth Sports features a reverse raffle with cash prizes, including a top prize of $1,500. It’s also a great time to reconnect with old classmates.

“I’ve worked the door at previous Alumni Nights,” said Courtney Moody, the committee’s media relations director. “It’s amazing and heartwarming just how many Crestline graduates come back to town for the festival. Once a bulldog, always a bulldog.”

September 14 promises a full day of family fun. The Crestline Fire Department will host its annual pancake breakfast at 7 a.m. at the fire station. The Harvest Festival 5K Color Run, presented by OhioHealth, starts at 9 a.m. at the high school. The Back the Blue Car and Motorcycle Show begins at 9 a.m. along Seltzer Street and at the Village Hall parking lot.

Kids stage entertainment starts at noon, featuring Taylor’s Twists Balloons from noon to 2 p.m., Royal Princesses from noon to 3 p.m. at Spots Rolling Bean, and COSI Science Live near the kids stage from noon to 3 p.m. The parade will step off at 3:30 p.m. from Kelly Park, traveling east on Bucyrus Street.

The Great Pumpkin Competition returns for a second year, spearheaded by Marc Sleeckx. “Get ready for a smashing good time,” Sleeckx said. “Whether your pumpkin is pint-sized or colossal, we welcome all contributions.” Those interested in participating should contact Sleeckx at 419-571-4909. A silent auction on all pumpkins will take place during the festival, with proceeds benefiting new benches around Jayce Pond.

Main stage entertainment includes Tracy Rose on Thursday night from 6 to 8 p.m., followed by Pioneer Performing Arts. Friday features Tom’s Kitchen Table at 6 p.m. and Jessica Hannan at 8 p.m. Phil Dirt and The Dozers will perform at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, followed by Jess Kellie Adams at 7 p.m.

Main stage contests begin at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday with Hay Bale Tossing, followed by Pizza Eating, Wing Eating, and Mullet contests. Kids stage contests include the 3rd Annual Crestline Cuties, Updo/Most Creative Hair, Hula Hoop, Limbo, Cookie Face, and Water Balloon Toss.

Ride tickets are $2 each or 20 for $30, with all-day wristbands available for $10 on Thursday, $15 on Friday, and $20 on Saturday.

For more information, visit CrestlineHarvestFestival.org or follow the festival on Facebook.