The Original Farmers Market, corner of Third and Fairfax, presents its 81st annual Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 17 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

(photo courtesy of the Original Farmers Market)

The free festival began in 1934 to celebrate the harvest and the launch of the Market. The tradition continues this year with a weekend of entertainment and activities for all ages.

The Market will be decorated for the autumnal harvest and visitors can enjoy a petting zoo with llamas, goats and bunnies. Agventure Land offers hands-on, interactive booths focused on farm-based activities. Craft artisans, weavers, spinners and pumpkin and leather carvers will demonstrate their crafts in Artisan Alley, along with a farrier who will demonstrate the art of horseshoeing. A classic pie-eating contest sponsored by Du-Par’s, will feature the Market’s Fall Festival mascot, a quick-witted scarecrow named Kevin, as emcee.

Ten musical acts will also perform. The San Fernando Valley Banjo Band will kick off festivities on Oct. 17 at 11 a.m., followed by Kiddle Karoo’s Barnyard Bash Puppet Show; Merle Jagger’s country trio; Appalachia West, featuring Scarlet Rivera; and Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys.

Jazz N’ Banjos will perform on Sunday, Oct. 18 at 11 a.m., followed by The Miners; Cow Bop; RT N’ the 44s; Tina Michelle & the Rhinestone Cowboys; and the Doo-Wah Riders.

The Original Farmers Market is located at 6333 W. 3rd St. For information and a Fall Festival schedule, www.FarmersMarketLA.com.