There are many good reasons to attend Fallfest: funnel cakes and rides come to mind immediately.

But what makes Westminster Fallfest great is that while families are listening to live music, playing games, watching community organization demonstrations, eating cotton candy and riding the ferris wheel, they are also supporting local charities.

Each year Fallfest donates its proceeds to local charities. This year's charities are Access Carroll, Westminster Boys and Girls Club, Carroll County Youth Services Bureau and Carroll Hospice.

According to the CCYSB website, The Carroll County Youth Service Bureau has provided outpatient mental health services in Carroll County since 1972 and has grown into a multi-disciplinary behavioral health service practice that offers a range of outpatient treatment services.

After the parade Thursday night, Fallfest will continue with Midnight Madness on Friday, Sept. 23. During Midnight Madness, many stores in the Main Street area stay open late and offer special shopping incentives. Fallfest will run on Saturday from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. and on Sunday from noon until 6 p.m.