GREENFIELD — The 2025 Greenfield Harvest Festival spanned over two days earlier this month, beginning with a lively kick-off parade that set the tone for a weekend filled with community celebration, fall fun and local talent.
The Oct. 18 parade, organized by the Greenfield High School 246th Battalion of the California Cadet Corps in collaboration with the City of Greenfield, opened the festivities that Saturday evening.
Parade participants, including local cadets, traveled along El Camino Real, from Walnut to Maple avenues, as spectators watched and cheered them on.
Then, on Oct. 19, the main event also took place on El Camino Real, between Tyler and Maple avenues, drawing an estimated 15,000-plus attendees to enjoy a Sunday afternoon of food, music, vendor booths and entertainment.
Presented by the City of Greenfield and Alegria Musical, the Harvest Festival featured more than 100 vendors, a vibrant car show organized by Cristian Padilla from CrisGotWings and a variety of performances, such as folklórico dancing.
Supported by numerous local sponsors — including Flora’s Farm, Pura & Parrish LLC, RC Farms, BC Farms and Oak Avenue Mini Mart — the event also benefited from donations of nearly 1,000 pumpkins from local farms for painting and decorations.
The festival’s success was further driven by the efforts of 60 dedicated volunteers who helped coordinate activities and ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for all.
A key highlight was the community’s ongoing support for education through the annual Harvest Festival Scholarship. The initiative is overseen by Jose Chavez, coordinator for the Community Engagement Department with the City of Greenfield.
“Now in its second year, the scholarship was established to support the educational goals of students from South Monterey County, providing financial assistance to help them pursue higher education and achieve their full potential,” Chavez said.
This year, 12 students from across South Monterey County received $500 scholarships each — totaling $6,000 — thanks to contributions from Oak Avenue Mini Mart, CHISPA Housing and Tri-Cities Recycling.
“The Harvest Festival Scholarship reflects our ongoing commitment to investing in local youth, fostering leadership and creating lasting opportunities that strengthen our community as a whole,” added Chavez.
