Pumpkin pals! Kovars Martial Arts Mascot Keegan welcomes visitors to the Founder’s Harvest Festival at Carmichael Park. Carmichael Kiwanis sponsored the pumpkin patch.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Hundreds of visitors enjoyed a fall-flavored anniversary in Carmichael Park last weekend. The Founder’s Harvest Festival marked Carmichael’s 115th birthday.

Founder Daniel Carmichael established his first colony in 1909, selling 10-acre blocks to those escaping city life. Two years later, the Realtor enlarged his domain with a second, adjacent colony. Carmichael remains a proudly unincorporated chunk of Sacramento County to this day.

Dancers, band performances and a classic car show enhanced last weekend’s birthday festivities. A petting zoo introduced children to farm animals that were crucial to pioneers.

Miniature donkey Gracie is among critters provided by Funny Farm Mobile Zoo in Carmichael Park. Groomer is 6-year-old Gracie Whiting.

On Saturday, Oct. 19, pets will be the focus of a “Barktober” doggie festival in Carmichael Park. From 10 a.m. to noon, the event includes a demonstration by Roseville Police Department’s fearless K-9 team.

For pet owners, contests will showcase master/dog dance coordination. The event's much-anticipated "Fido Fashion" event begins at 11:15 a.m. Prizes will be offered in many categories.

A pumpkin patch will augment this festival's Halloween theme.

Anyone can attend Barktober. For more information, visit www.carmichaelpark.com/community-events.