The leaves are falling all around and excitement is stirring around the upcoming Stafford Township Harvest Festival. The 17th annual event, which takes place at Manahawkin Lake Park at Route 9 and Lakeshore Drive from noon to 5 p.m. on Oct. 12 and 13, features a wine tasting festival just across the road at Heritage Park, along with a plethora of food and craft vendors to peruse.

Family-friendly fall activities include scarecrow making, pumpkin picking, a Halloween parade and even a costume…