CulverFallFest2015FrontPstcrdCulver Fall Fest, hosted by the Culver Chamber of Commerce, will kick off one week earlier than in years past, Friday, October 9 and Saturday, October 10 with Culver Kiwanis Cyclocross on Sunday, October 11.

Moonlight Paddle includes new route, story The Moonlight Paddle and local Native American lore, sponsored by Culver Academies and Culver Union Township Heritage, Inc., will this year feature a new canoe, kiwak, and stand-up paddleboard route along the Lake Maxinkcukee shoreline. The paddle will begin at 7 p.m. at the Beach Lodge in Culver’s Town Park. Life jackets and canoes are provided, though space is limited. Participants are welcome and encouraged to bring your own canoe or kayak should you have one. The paddlers will gather around a bonfire for a local ghost story and refreshments. To reserve a canoe, call 574-842-8080 or email dana.neer@culver.org

Culver fall fest witches scarecrowFondue dinner premieres The first annual fondue dinner, presented by The Lakehouse Grille, will take place Friday, October 9 beginning at 7:30 p.m. The dinner consists of cheese fondue with bread and apples, with the main course including lobster, fillet, shrimp and chicken and for dessert, chocolate paired with fruit. This delightful fall meal costs $50 per person, with house wine included. Seating is limited, reservations may be made by calling The Lakehouse Grille at 574-842- 2234.

‘Bolt for Blessings’ Fun Run debuts Saturday morning will kick off with the Blessings in a Backpack fundraiser Fun Run/Walk. The fun and healthy event will raise funds and awareness about the Blessings in a Backpack program in Culver, part of a national campaign aimed at ending hunger during the weekends for students in need. Information for the fundraiser is available at www.culverfallfest.com or contact Tracy Fox via email at tracy@foodnutritionpolicy.com.

Returning this year is the ever-popular scarecrow contest, which displays scarecrows created by local businesses, organizations, and individuals throughout the town of Culver.

‘Sleepy Hollow’ by Stevens Puppets Stevens Puppets are returning with The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, which will be performed free at noon and 1 pm., inside the large meeting room in Culver-Union Township Public Library. Children will have an opportunity after each show to learn about the hand carved puppets and see backstage. Stevens Puppets have been “bringing fairy tales and literature to life,” since 1933.

Historic Walking Tour kicks off A Culver Historic Walking Tour will make its debut on Saturday, October 10. Project director, Julie Hollowell, Phd, will be greeting those embarking on the tour at the lighthouse in Culver’s Town Park. The Historic Walking Tour is self-guided and will be a permanent, year-round opportunity to explore Culver’s fascinating past at one’s own pace. There are three routes to choose from, all starting from the lighthouse.

Live music, food and shopping will return to Main Street in Culver’s downtown, with Café Max hosting a beer and wine tent. Music will be played by DJ Tim, sponsored by The Lakehouse Grille.

Culver History Hayride includes new sites The classic Culver History Hayride will transport participants back in time along a new route, beginning at the Train Depot on Lake Shore Drive and continuing through downtown, weaving back to the depot. Tour guide and town historian Jeff Kenney will give historical background about a bygone era. Tours begin at 4:30 p.m. with the last departing at 6:30 p.m., each lasting approximately 25 minutes. The history hayride is sponsored by Culver Academies and Culver Union Township Heritage, Inc.

Sunday’s Culver Kiwanis Cyclo-cross event will launch at a new location Sunday morning, Oct. 11, with kids races starting at 10:30 a.m. and adult events to follow. This year’s race has moved to the town of Culver’s beach and adjacent Indian Trails woods. See www.facebook.com/culvercx for registration details.

A full Culver Fall Fest event schedule is available at www.culverfallfest.com and the Culver Fall Fest Facebook page.