Burke hosts its biggest block party on Sept. 8 and 9 as the community welcomes friends and neighbors of all ages for the 35th annual Burke Centre Fall Festival. The event will be held at the Burke Centre Conservancy’s (BCC) Festival Grounds, 6060 Burke Centre Parkway.

"This is still the most affordable family event around," said Jeannie Winslow, administration director for the BCC. "The goal is not to make money, but to celebrate the Burke Centre community."

Winslow said this year’s event features community favorites, such as the quality arts and crafts show with a shopper incentive program where buyers can win prizes just for making a purchase, delicious food and live entertainment appealing to all ages.

"We’ve enhanced the event by adding more pony rides and face painters so the lines are not too long. I always say there’s something for everyone, but it’s true with this event," Winslow said.

She added that there is a surprise this year, which will "probably" happen on Sunday afternoon.

"I’ve wanted to do something like a flash mob at the festival for several years, but you have to come out and see if we can make that happen, maybe on Sunday afternoon around 1 p.m. You never know," she said, smiling.

In addition to two days of live entertainment, including the popular Mexican Dance Ensemble, there are carnival rides, two moon bounces, a junior Ferris wheel, a 28-foot rock-climbing wall, interactive wildlife exhibits, face-painting, toddler play areas and pet care centers. New features this year include private areas for nursing mothers and diaper changing, TalkStory with Burke Living History Demonstrations (from 3-4 p.m. each day), and a classic Mustang raffle hosted by the Baileys Crossroad Rotary Club.

"We really try to find something that’s appealing for all age groups, and everything is reasonably priced, so it’s a very family-friendly event," Winslow said. "There are many free activities, and all of the entertainment is free, so you don’t have to spend a dime. People are usually quite pleased with the variety of food, attractions and entertainment."

Her "insider" tip this year? Use the free shuttle buses, which will pick up festival-goers at the community centers and Metro bus lots. In addition, free parking is available along Burke Centre Parkway and at Knollwood Community Church on Saturday across from the conservancy. The festival typically draws about 10,000 people for the weekend, Winslow said.

"Our goal is to make sure that people walk away smiling after having a great time with all members of their family. It’s also a great way to learn about the community," Winslow said.

Check out the website at www.burkecentreweb.com for more information about parking, sponsors and other event information.