Costumed live role playing of Star Wars characters could be seen at Norwich Fall Fest and Immortal October. (Photo from Norwich Fall Fest), Norwich Fall Fest hosted hot air balloon rides and a glow event at night to mark the grand finale of the festival. (Photo from Norwich Fall Fest)

NORWICH – The first-ever Norwich Fall Fest and Immortal October held their grand finale this past weekend with a hot air balloon glow, the Emerald Empire Detachment and Star Wars characters.

The first ever Norwich Fall Fest and Immortal October has been presenting shows all month but was forced to cancel the Halloween weekend of activities at the fairgrounds after illness impacted the headliner performance and the scheduling of other shows.

Rather than the planned bands that were supposed to put on a show, organizers got local bands to come and play for the audience. They also hosted a “candy passport” program for kids to earn prizes and treats.

In a post shared to Facebook on the Immortal October page, organizers explained the various reasons for canceling. They assured that next year's planning has already begun and that they will be bringing it back “bigger and better.”