MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- The fall weather brings in a cool breeze and an earlier setting sun, which provided the perfect scenery for a family oriented celebration on Oct. 30.

Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton’s chaplain’s office hosted the third annual Harvest Festival at the Blinder Memorial field, to give Marines, sailors and their families a chance to experience a safe and fun affair.

“The festival is a time for everyone to have a fun day with their families,” said Connie Bivens, coordinator of the event. “The weather turned out beautiful, and allowed everyone to enjoy a social gathering.”

The free event catered to more than 200 attendees and allowed participants to enjoy activities while showing off their best Halloween costumes.

“Our kids have such a good time with the variety of activities,” said Daisy Day, attendee with her husband and four children. “We love getting dressed up and having fun with the whole family.”

From a beanbag toss to finding their way through an inflatable obstacle course, children had plenty of events to choose from.

Active duty members and the base community volunteers are the main reason the event has such a positive turnout, said Bivens. Having the support of the base chaplain is a major reason base is able to continue to make this event possible.

“We have this event not only to give everyone a chance to come out and have fun for the fall season,” Bivens explained, “but we want to make sure everyone realizes that we are here for you inside and outside the chapels’ walls.”

Bivens also expressed that if there is anyway the base chaplain’s office can offer assistance to Pendleton’s residents, not to hesitate to contact them. For further information or questions about base chapels, call 760-725-2929.