The 9th annual Shannon Airport Harvest Festival offered visitors a taste of aviation in a unique trick or treat experience on Saturday, October 28.

The event brought in families with kids of all ages dressed in their favorite Halloween costumes to explore aviation themed vendors and the Shannon Air Museum. The big draw for many was the two candy drops where an airplane flew overhead and released a load of candy onto a field beside the runway. Once the all clear was given, the youngsters sprinted to retrieve the sweets and fill their baskets.

The festival featured several different vendors, including JAARS Aviation, the Flying Circus and the Commemorative Air Force offering rides in their aircraft or helicopters. Many children also had their first experience sitting in an actual airplane and getting a feel for what it’s like being in front of flight controls.

The Shannon Air Museum offered an educational experience for all to learn about aviation history while encouraging future generations of aviation professionals. Funds raised from the event will be used to expand the museum and make it more interactive with hands-on learning opportunities for children.

The Virginia Department of Aviation attended the event with the public relations and education team sharing information with visitors about its various aviation education programs. PR staff also provided guests with aviation calendars, luggage tags, pencils, airplane erasers and other giveaways.

Overall, it was a fun Halloween themed experience for all to enjoy and get a glimpse into the exciting opportunities available in aviation.