P-J file photo The Panama Rocks Foliage Festival is set to make its annual return at the beginning of October.

PANAMA — With the return of the fall season comes the return of Panama Rocks annual Foliage Festival at the beginning of October.

Set for Oct. 5 and 6 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, 11 Rock Hill Road, Panama Rocks owner, Jonathan Weston, said the festival will have more vendors this year.

“We have added vendors, with over 80 this year, which is more than we’ve had in the past,” Weston said. “Along with Davis and Eng we have two new bands this year too, Son and Drew and Lena. There will be new arts and crafts vendors, new demonstrations, and new food vendors.”

Street parking for the festival is free while parking in the field costs $5. Weston said people should come out and see the new vendors, all of whom are required to make their own products and have their own unique items. Demonstrations this year include chainsaw carving, blacksmithing, glass blowing, and quilting. Food vendors will be selling snacks and there will be live music on stage throughout the day. Attendees will be able to explore the rocks, participate in carnival-style ax throwing, and there will also be a horse drawn wagon ride and face painting. The popular Plushihut will be returning, offering stuffed animals in a style similar to Build-A-Bear, and Weston said there will be other activities for children as well. Gate admission is free for most activities except for things such as visiting the rocks and ax throwing. The arts and crafts show and live music are free, and there will also be a Halloween costume contest both days.

“Thousands of people come every year and have a great time,” Weston said. “You can come look at the fall foliage and shop from vendors in the area. They are all required to make their own items to sell, so you will find new and unique things at the craft show. Come have fun, shop, hike in the rocks and enjoy some music.”

Additionally, Weston said the Fall Foliage Festival is a great way to encourage people to come visit the park. It also sets them up financially as they prepare to close for the winter season and wait to reopen until the next summer season.

“It helps encourage shopping locally,” Weston said. “People can come and shop from local people who are hand-making their products and help support the local economy.”

For more information and a full schedule of events visit panamarocks.com.