Orange Park Elementary's annual Fall Festival returns Friday, Oct. 23, with new attractions as Clay County's oldest school nears its 100th birthday.

The school, established in 1927 at 1401 Plainfield Ave., will host 15 to 20 carnival games, food, a bounce house, axe throwing and fire and police trucks for kids to explore, according to Clay Today. The festival runs from 4 to 7 p.m., and tickets for games and food can be purchased at the gate.

This year's lineup includes two new additions: a cotton candy machine and a silent disco party hosted by Kill the Noise.

"We have added a few new booths this year to try to bring something a little bit different, some freshness," PFA chairperson Cheyenne Jackson told Clay Today.

The tradition stretches back to 1939, when the first festival featured a few booths and games. That inaugural event turned a profit of $21.11. Now in its 87th year, the festival fills the school's courtyard with games like a paper-mache Frankenstein, a toilet paper toss and the cake walk.

Jackson, who attended Orange Park Elementary as a student, said it brings her joy to share the event with her own children. She and fellow PFA chairperson Katie Etheridge organize the festival year-round. Etheridge said planning starts the moment one year's festival ends.

"Then, once school starts, we get into high gear getting everything set," Etheridge told Clay Today.

The Parent-Faculty Association (PFA) hosts the event, with parents running every booth and donating many of the items. Jackson said local businesses have also contributed donations this year, offsetting expenses. Proceeds fund student activities and school programs, including the Legacy Letter program and school supplies.

The festival is separate from the town-wide Orange Park Fall Festival held earlier in October. Orange Park Elementary's event is open to families and the community.

Upcoming community events

  • Friday, Oct. 23: Orange Park Elementary Fall Festival, 4 to 7 p.m., 1401 Plainfield Ave. Tickets at the gate.
  • Now open: Grumpy's largest location on Fleming Island.