Last weekend, the first ever Sherburne Fall Fest was held on the grounds of the Sherburne History Center and judging by the crowds, the event was a huge success.  Beautiful weather, excellent food and lots of fun games greeted the many area residents who attended.

Over 20 vendors were on site selling a wide variety of items, from freeze dried candy and landscape photography to home decor, sourdough bread and greeting cards.

Numerous nonprofit organizations also had booths, including the recently formed Becker Breakfast Club, and 12 Cookies Co., whose owner, Layla Mathews, donates some of her proceeds to cancer research.

Approximately 40 participants participated in the fun run, held on the Oak Savanna Park trails, while the Chili Cook-off competition drew 10 red-based concoctions of different flavors and spice levels.  Amy Stanger took home first place in the event, while Cole Steil earned second place and Rick Hendrickson finished third (prizes donated by McDonald’s Meats).

Other popular attractions included the McDonald’s Meats hot dog stand hosted by the Fall Fest planning committee, and the Becker Lions beer garden.  Cullen Brown provided live music for the event.

Members of the History Center provided home baked goods for the cake walk, and there was pumpkin painting to keep the kids busy.  The Becker Cross Country team provided games for the youngsters, including minnow races.

There was also an abundance of equipment on hand for those both young and old interested in seeing trucks and other gear from the Becker Police Department, Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office and Becker Fire Department.

The Becker Chamber of Commerce, Sherburne History Center and Sherburne County all joined together in the planning of the event, and plans are already in the works for next year’s edition.

Sponsors of the event included: Kwik Trip, Dueling Brews, Sherburne State Bank, Bill’s Superette, Hubbard Electric, CDM Synergies, Wruck Sewer & Portable Rentals, Ace Solid Waste, Darter Plastics Inc., All Purpose Rentals, EMR and Minnesota Native Landscapes.

A big thank you to all the volunteers, businesses and organizations who pitched in to make the first Fall Fest a huge success!