[Updated: October 15, 2025 | Published: October 15, 2025]
Third Annual Festival Connects Over 200 Residents, Families, Staff and Volunteers
Our Third Annual Buckeye Fall Fest brought our entire community together, bridging generations and living spaces to celebrate the people and experiences that give life at Friendship Village of Dublin — The Village Way — its richness.
A Morning of Moments to Treasure
Bright sunshine, live music and the chatter of excited voices filled the parking lot at Alderwood Health & Rehab on September 27. For over two hours, our campus transformed into a bustling festival with vibrant fall decorations, engaging activities for all ages, and a joyful, carnival-like atmosphere.
Many of us tried our hand at festival games, including football throwing, bean bag toss, ball toss, number roulette and more. Friendly competition played out over cornhole and giant Connect Four. A face-painting station added a playful touch.
We also explored our creative side at the coloring and craft tables. Buckeye rings were a big hit!
The popular petting zoo delighted everyone with the simple joy of connecting with ducks, turkeys, rabbits, pigs and sheep.
Two local musicians kept our toes tapping:
- Glen Parks brought his signature four-string banjo style, delighting us with a program of beloved old-time, gospel, and novelty tunes.
- Guitarist Chris Bare entertained us with an inviting mix of classic folk, country, and pop songs delivered in an easygoing acoustic style.
It wouldn’t be a festival without fair food! Everyone noshed on free popcorn, fall-flavored donuts, sweet treats, and drinks.
We had a blast seeing our staff, families, and neighbors decked out in scarlet and gray as we prepared to cheer on The Ohio State University Buckeyes football team. Later in the day, the Bucks beat the Washington Huskies 24-6.
Festival Connects Everyone in Our Community
Buckeye Fall Fest began in 2021 when Barb Holiday, Community Life Enrichment, set out to create an event that would bring together Residents and staff of our Independent Living, Alderwood Health & Rehab, Rowan House Memory Care, and Waterford Place Assisted Living communities. The result was a fall festival with fun activities held safely on our 29-acre campus.
The first Buckeye Fall Fest attracted about 110 attendees, with Residents, staff, and families with children all joining the fun. Independent Living Residents stepped up as both volunteers and participants.
What started as a gathering of just over 100 people three years ago has grown into a joyful, campus-wide celebration. This year, festival attendance doubled to over 200 people — including family groups of as many as four generations. What a treat to enjoy a morning filled with memorable experiences, meaningful connections, and shared fun!
The Village Behind the Fest
Incredible teamwork drove the event’s success. Many thanks to everyone who joined us for this fun-filled morning! We’re especially grateful to all who volunteered their time, helping Residents take part in activities and ensuring the event ran smoothly.
“Buckeye Fall Fest is a wonderful example of The Village Way in action,” said Rita Doherty, CEO of Friendship Village of Dublin.
“It takes thoughtful planning, creativity, and a spirit of service to bring so many Residents, families, staff and volunteers together. I want to thank everyone who helped make this year’s festival such a joyful, memorable day for our community.”
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