The weather in the Fairmont area on Saturday was cloudy and cool, with the high temperature not reaching 70 degrees. Not quite what one would expect from a weekend in August. It was more like fall.

Which made it perfect for the annual opening of Center Creek Orchard southeast of town. The family-friendly site is all about autumn, apples, pumpkins and fun.

Gordy and Karen Toupal were busy greeting visitors and then getting down to business. Karen worked the admissions desk and sold apples, caramel apples, dippers, pie and crisp. Gordy talked about having put aside his golf clubs for the year, then headed off downhill to drive the little train that takes visitors for a ride.

The couple will remain active for weeks to come. Center Creek is open every weekend in September and October, along with Labor Day and MEA break (Oct 16-18). School and business groups visit during the week.

The Toupals rely on each other and their seasoned team of 15 part-timers to meet the demand.

And there are, of course, the more than 500 apple trees to harvest as well. The fall festival offers an outlet for all those apples, but has developed into the showcase for the orchard. That’s because of all the time, effort and attractions the Toupals have added over the years.

Center Creek’s grounds are busy with active footfalls each season, as children run and frolic, urging mom and dad to come along, then stop at the various play areas.

The children seem to especially enjoy the super slide, barrel train, bounce pad and duck racing. Families also can build a scarecrow, listen to a story, play mini golf, and enjoy treats and snacks. And there is a hayride.

Families from Sherburn and Fairmont were among the guests on Saturday, as well as from New Ulm, Blue Earth and elsewhere. The crowds grow larger as October draws near.

There are dozens of apple varieties available at the orchard, with nearly 20,000 pounds of apples harvested by the time the season wraps up.

The Fall Festival is held every Saturday and Sunday in September and October from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $9 per person, with those age 2 and younger getting in for free. A season pass is available for $15. Many families buy the pass, which allows them to come back regularly.

To get to Center Creek Orchard from Fairmont, travel south on Highway 15 for four miles, then turn left (east) on County Road 18. Go another four miles, then turn right (south) on 254th Avenue. The orchard is located on the right. Signs help point the way.

For more information, visit www.centercreekorchard.com