Masconomo Park was buzzing with energy last weekend as families, friends, and neighbors came together for the annual Carnival & Harvestfest, a beloved Manchester tradition that blends good old fashioned fun with meaningful support for local youth.
From classic carnival rides and live music to cider donuts from Vine Street Donuts and piping hot coffee from By the Sea Café, the celebration had something for everyone. Kids darted between game booths and food stands, while grown ups caught up over lattes and watched pumpkins meet their smashing fates in spectacular style.
Behind the scenes, the Hornets Boosters have really dug in and stayed with this event over the last several years, even as challenging weather hampered the community event in two of its first three years.
Not this year. From Friday to Sunday, the skies were crystal clear and temperatures felt almost like a second summer. The result: record crowds and—while the final vendor tally isn’t yet in—it’s looking like the weekend could go down in the fundraising record books.
Beyond the laughter and lights, the heart of Carnival & Harvestfest lies in its mission: to support Manchester Essex’s student athletes through the Athletic Boosters. Every ticket sold, wristband worn, and cup of coffee poured contributed to funding scholarships, uniforms, equipment, and team experiences that help shape the next generation of local athletes on and off the field.
Thanks to generous local sponsors such as Poppy Legal Group, Kelly Jeep Chrysler, and Laughing Gull Coffee, and the tireless efforts of volunteers, HarvestFest 2025 was not only a festive success—it smashed its fundraising goals with style.
Check out the photo highlights from a picture perfect fall weekend that proves when a community shows up, everyone wins. More photos at thecricket.com.
Emily McCavanagh is co-chair of the Hornets Boosters and a co-chair of the Manchester HarvestFest Carnival event committee.
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