Christal Gaines-Emory
Special to the Village News
On Sunday, Oct. 18, the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Harvest Faire, complete with costume contests, a pie bake-off, a pumpkin contest, horseback riding for kids, live music and a beer garden.
The faire offered a wide range of vendors, from local small businesses to Fallbrook nonprofits, each booth provided unique products such as watercolor art, artisanal honey, crocheted sweaters, soy wax candles, fresh produce and more.
Anita Ruka, owner of Arts by Anita, displayed hand-painted watercolor art featuring different landscapes and natural elements. Ruka has been pursuing her art for 10 years and she was excited at the opportunity to share her work at the Harvest Faire.
“This is my first Harvest Faire and it has been fun so far,” Ruka said. “I’ve really enjoyed the people.” In her booth, Ruka showcased art ranging from $5-$350, offering all visitors a chance to leave the faire with beautiful, hand-painted pictures.
Another booth, Fallbrook Protea, enticed guests with protea bouquets and wreaths for the fall season. According to Fallbrook Protea owner Stephanie Baxter, the Harvest Faire is one of the most fun events of the year in Fallbrook.
“I’m always thankful to share these flowers with our community,” Baxter said. “We love the opportunity to sell proteas here.” Baxter’s booth featured several different protea bouquets, eucalyptus bouquets, protea wreaths and more.
Along with booths featuring local businesses, the Harvest Faire sectioned off a whole block of Main Avenue to highlight local nonprofits. Fallbrook Animal Sanctuary, Fallbrook Food Pantry, Fallbrook Land Conservancy, Wings of Change, Fallbrook Scarecrow Days and more were all represented in the nonprofit section. Many nonprofits offered free gifts for visitors as well as photo opportunities and crafts for kids.
Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Officer Lila Hargrove was proud to see the success of the event.
“Our kids zone has been popular this year, everyone seems to be having fun today,” Hargrove said. “We have great food, great vendors and it’s been nice to see so many people from our community.”
Hargrove was also thankful for the opportunity to connect with the community; the Harvest Faire brought a crowd of locals and visitors from out of town to Main Avenue.
In the Beer Garden located at Vince Ross Square, adults 21+ were able to drink beer and wine while listening to live music by two local groups, Raina and the Cody Carter Band.
The 2026 Harvest Faire ended with the winners from the costume contests, pie off and pumpkin contests announced at the Chamber booth. The attendees left downtown with smiling faces and bags full of artisanal goods and local artwork.
