New Hyde Park families enjoy pie contests and costume fun at Memorial Park

Hundreds of families gathered at Memorial Park in New Hyde Park on Oct. 31 for the village's sixth annual Halloween Fall Festival. The event took place under clear fall skies and included structured activities for children and adults alike.

The Village of New Hyde Park organized the celebration to serve as a pre-trick-or-treat gathering. It marked the sixth time the administration has held this specific festival. Participants engaged in several organized competitions and creative stations throughout the afternoon.

Children lined up for costume contests categorized by age groups. Families cheered as young contestants displayed their outfits. Young volunteers assisted in running games and activities. Other attendees participated in pumpkin decorating sessions. Pie-eating contests provided a competitive element to the afternoon schedule.

Michelle Nikolis attended with her husband and two young children. She stated that the family valued the village's organization of the event. “We really appreciate the village putting together events like this for the families. It’s wonderful to have something like this for the children and the whole community to enjoy,” Nikolis said.

Sharon Swithin brought her 20-month-old son to the festival for the first time. The family wore a group costume inspired by the animated film “Ratatouille.” Swithin described the experience as very exciting and fun.

Mayor Christopher Devane confirmed the village intends to continue the tradition. “This is the sixth year we are doing it for the kids, but look at the families and the crowd it brings in,” Devane said. “We will definitely continue doing it because it brings the community together. This is what we want to see.”