Autumn Leaves Festival

Just learned the Autumn Leaves Festival is Oct. 8-10 in Mount Airy, N.C.

What's really cool, is PART, the regional bus system for the Piedmont Triad, is offering a special bus service from Winston this weekend! I hope Triad residents take advantage of the service and visit the festival.

I use this bus system during the week and it's worth it. It saves money on gas and the wear and tear of your car. It's also a relief from stress because you don't have to do all the driving! Here's the bus schedule (PDF).

The festival features bluegrass, old time and gospel music; food; and arts and crafts.

Dogfest, Level Cross, N.C.

I got a press release this week about the 13th Annual Dogfest at the Level Cross Community Center (N.C.).

It'll be 1-4:30 p.m.Oct. 17 at the center -- 112 Branson Mill Road, Randleman. Take the Level Cross Exit, which is north of Randleman and south of Greensboro off of U.S. 220.

This is a fundraiser for the Humane Society of the Piedmont and Ruff Love Foster Care and Dog Rescue. It's also used to raise awareness of homeless and abused animals and encourage spaying and neutering.

There will be several activities for families and their four-legged friends, including a costume contest, face painting and pumpkin decorating.

Admission is $3 for adults and $1 for children 12 and under. Children 2 and younger get in free.

Shelton Vineyards' Harvest Festival

Shelton Vineyard will host its 5th annual Harvest Festival Oct. 9-10.

I have three, wonderful days off that weekend so I plan to ask Chris if he wants to go.

The winery's website says the festival will feature pumpkins, apples, sweet potatoes and other produce. There will be grape stomping, which I'd love to see!

There will also be craftsmen and music — staples you always see at all festivals in the area.

The times are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.

And the event is free!