NORWICH — The Norwich Business Improvement District (BID) is hosting the fifth annual ‘Norwitch’ Fall Festival from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., in East and West Park in Norwich, Saturday, October 25, in conjunction with Saturday in the Park with Chobani.

The festival will include more than 100 local vendors with products ranging from fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, pet accessories, art and crafts, candles, honey, coffee, beeswax, 3D-printed items, and more, along with a variety of local organizations and nonprofits.

BID Organizer Mindy Chawgo said the festival will be right downtown and have everything from Disney Princesses to pumpkin carvings by Riis, and a bounce house from Live Events.

“It’s going to be a full day for our community,” said Chawgo.

“The Columbus Public House barbecue and the Waits family patronage hayrides will begin at 11 a.m with hayrides continuing until 2 p.m.,” she said. “And the YMCA Halloween Parade is back, starting at 12:00 p.m.”

Chawgo noted there will also be a pet costume contest and face painting.

“Trunk or Treat will be from 3 to 5 p.m., in the Frontier parking lot,” she continued. “About 25 Norwich businesses, organizations, and families will decorate their cars and hand out candy for a fun safe zone to trick or treat.”

The parade is open to schools, businesses, clubs, churches, organizations, marching bands, fire and police departments, families and more, with prizes given out for best halloween costumes.

Individuals who would like to participate in the costume contest portion of the parade, can do so by writing any random number on a white piece of paper and attach it to the back of costume.

Chawgo encourages the community to join the fun and also support local businesses.