The latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Heartland

BLOOMFIELD, IOWA -- Davis County is welcoming autumn with its annual Fall Festival and Art Show that will be held Saturday, October 1.

The event features activities for all ages; including rides, games, art and a car show. There will also be plenty of food and live entertainment throughout the day.

Activities will be held at the Davis County Courthouse lawn and the McGowen Recreation Area.

Program Coordinator Diana Upton-Hill said its a great way to give back to the community.

"These type of events are very important for many reasons: to draw people into the community; have them stay,play,shop, and dine. But its also a sense of belonging, when everybody can come together and hang out. "

There is one challenge: having to compete against Ottumwa's Oktoberfest celebration; which is expected to bring thousands of people to the City of Bridges. Upton-Hill views it as a way for people to attend both events.

"We definitely encourage people to take in both activities. Oktoberfest has a ho to offer. They can enjoy the parade in the morning, then come down here for the afternoon. We have a lot of events and live entertainment happening.

The Fall Festival is sponsored by the Bloomfield Main Street and the Davis County Fine Arts Council. For more information, visit www.bloomfieldmainstreet.com.