Children in costumes filled up the LaGrange College patio Monday at the school’s annual fall festival. The event is held every year by LaGrange College clubs, which host games for children, including ring toss, giant connect four and poke-a-pumpkin.

“This is actually a tradition we have every year on the hill,” said Sarah Gore, a graduate assistant for the office of campus life.

“So, a bunch of student organizations come, and they volunteer to work booths. We plan games and get candy for them, and they sit out here and volunteer their time to work with the kids and have a good time.”

Gore said about 15 student organizations participated in the festival. Five-year-old Joannie Bostick dressed as a cat for Halloween and said her favorite booths were face painting and cookie decorating.

“We came out to check it out, play the games,” said Heather Bostick, Joannie’s mother. “We’re thankful for the college for doing this, and letting the kids get out and (get) fresh air and have fun.”

Visitor Lisa Benefield said her 3-year-old son Tristan, who dressed as a triceratops, was just excited about receiving candy.

“I think this is actually pretty cool,” Benefield said.

“It’s very community oriented, and I think that’s awesome.”

Gore said the fall festival is the start of Halloween events held at the college for students, including a haunted house and movie on the quad.

“I think it’s going great,” Gore said. “A lot of kids from the community came. People seem to be having a good time getting candy.”