Free Hayrides, Pony Rides, Games and Seasonal Activities for Kids: Hay Bales and Tall Tales is Saturday at Bridgeport Recreation Complex
By Julie Perine on October 13, 2016 via Connect-Bridgeport.com
Bridgeport Parks and Recreation is hoping for sunny skies Saturday for Hay Bales & Tall Tales, slated for 3-5 p.m. at Bridgeport Recreation Complex.
To be featured are ghost stories and other tall tales, as well as tractor-pulled hay wagon rides, games and other kid-friendly activities.
Last year, the event was not only postponed once, but ultimately relocated inside Benedum Civic Center because of inclement weather. The event was, as usual, a success with good attendance and much fun, but activities had to be altered to suit the indoor venue.
The tractor-pulled hay wagon will be ready for rider pick up at 3 p.m. A mile-long trail that winds throughout the complex generally accommodates walkers and joggers, but has proven to also be an ideal route for the hayride extravaganza, Parks and Recreation Deputy Director Joe Shuttleworth said. For two hours, 
the hayride will run its course.
the hayride will run its course.
In addition to that featured attraction, there will be pony rides and bounce houses, crafts, prizes and carnival-style games for little ones like duck and fish pond.
“We’ll also have popcorn, snow cones and cotton candy,” said Kathy Csonka of the city's parks and recreation department.
The Chick-fil-A cow will be on hand for meet and greet opportunities.
Hay Bales and Tall Tales is a longtime Bridgeport tradition. Shuttleworth
encourages families to take advantage of the free seasonal event.
If weather does not allow for the event to be held outdoors, it will be relocated to the Benedum Civic Center.
"We're keeping our fingers crossed that the weather will be nice," Csonka said.
The Halloween fun continues into October with the city's Trick or Treat night, 6-7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31.
Editor's Note: Above photos were taken at 2014 and 2015 Hay Bales and Tall Tales events, held at Bridgeport Recreation Complex and Benedum Civic Center, respectively.
