Fall festival on tap at Elijah's Retreat

Food, music and games are at the top of the list for the second annual Fall Festival at Elijah's Retreat, held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at 257 County Road 3110 in Jacksonville.

"Your support gives these amazing families facing autism the opportunity to catch a smile, hear 'I love you' and build lasting memories as a family through interactions with animals and nature," retreat director Cheryl Torres said in a Facebook post. "(It) provides families the opportunity to go days without a single meltdown (and) gives an autistic young adult work experience."

A slew of activities are planned, such as a yard battle, an apple launch, an RC car race, goat scramble and pony rides, along with a chance to perform archery. Then there are the Bandit Hayride, the barrel train, inflatables, Paw Patrol and balloon animals.

Guests are invited to come hungry: Food offerings include funnel cakes, homemade caramels and fudge, pulled pork BBQ sandwiches, hot dogs, chips and popcorn.

Activity tickets are 50 cents each, while tickets are $1 each for food.

Prize drawings will be held for a 52-inch zero-turn mower, four tickets to a Texas A&M football game (includes parking) and jewelry by Kendra Scott and Vera Bradley. Tickets are $5 each or five for $20.

Admission is free.

For more information, visit the Facebook page “Elijah’s Retreat,” or contact retreat director Cheryl Torres, 713-294-0960.