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4 events to get in the spirit of the season while helping a good cause
Trunk or treat

This time last week there seemed to be a dramatic disconnect between the weather outside and the pumpkin spice-themed products available in stores. Hoodies and sweaters were likely still tucked away in closets as temperatures stayed in the upper-80s.

But things have suddenly aligned with temperatures expected to drop into the 60s by next Saturday. 

Nice to finally see you, fall.

If you suddenly find yourself in the mood to do something in the fall spirit, there are several notable events fast-approaching. Even better, each has a philanthropic bent.


Socialize and raise funds for The Place of Forsyth County

What: The Place of Forsyth County presents the Homegrown Social 4th Annual Hunger Awareness Fundraiser to help support the program’s food program, a social and mingling hour that features live music, a silent auction, raffle, cash bar and dinner by Tam’s Tupelo.

Who: The Place of Forsyth County assists the Forsyth County area with essential needs and to be self-sustaining, including with financial emergency assistance, clothing, food and many additional support services.

When: Thursday, Oct. 18, at 5:30 p.m.

Where: The Reid Barn, at 6844 Majors Road in Cumming.

Cost: $50, which includes dinner and one raffle ticket.

Contact: Melina Holt, 770-887-1098 and melina@theplaceofforsyth.org.


Get in the Oktober spirit for CASA of Forsyth County

What: The first annual Forsyth Friends and Beaver Toyota of Cumming Oktoberfest to benefit CASA of Forsyth County featuring the traditional German fare, provided by Gasthaus Tirol, including potato pancakes, pretzels, bratwurst and other specialties to compliment tastings of imported German biers and wein. There will be live oompah music, dancing, a silent auction and specialty boutique shopping.

Who: CASA of Forsyth County is an organization of Court Appointed Special Advocates, a volunteer-powered network of people trained by a judge to speak up for the best interests of an abused or neglected child involved in a juvenile court proceeding.

When: Saturday, Oct. 20, 7-10 p.m.

Where: Beaver Toyota, at 1875 Buford Highway in Cumming.

Cost: $40

Contact: www.forsythfriends.org


Jeeps, poker and more to help Relay For Life

What: A fundraiser for Relay For Life of Forsyth County, featuring a poker ride from 9-11 a.m. and free trunk or treat from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., along with a costume contest for vehicles, adults, kids and furry friends, along with music, food, games and prizes.

Who: Relay For Life is the signature fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, staffed and coordinated by volunteers to put on events that bring communities together to remember loves ones lost, honor survivors of all cancers and raise money to make a global impact on cancer. 

When: Saturday, Oct. 20, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Stars & Strikes parking lot, at 133 Merchants Square in Cumming.

Cost: $20 per vehicle for the poker ride, $10 per additional hand. Register by Monday, Oct. 15.

Contact: jeeperscreepers.ticketspice.com.


Learning to trick or treat the safe way

What: The 9th Annual Trunk or Treat Safety Event is designed to give children a fun and safe environment to trick or treat while learning about Halloween safety, including costume safety, pedestrian safety, stranger danger, stop-drop-roll demonstrations and more. Children are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes, and bagged candy donations are encouraged.

Who: The event is hosted by the Forsyth County Fire Department.

When: Saturday, Oct. 20, from 6-9 p.m.

Where: Cumming Fairgrounds, at 235 Castleberry Road in Cumming.

Cost: Free

Contact: Erin Long, 770-205-4688.