By: Kody Hanor
On Saturday, October 4, the community gathered in the charming borough of Hawley, for one of its longest-running seasonal festivals—the Hawley Hoedown. This annual fall celebration offers something for everyone, featuring cider tastings, brews, contests, demonstrations, crafts, live entertainment, and a variety of locally grown foods and business specials to try.
The Hawley Hoedown began 35 years ago when a group of local merchants and shop owners came together to bring new energy and boost community spirit to the downtown. Over time, the event has grown into Hawley’s largest annual attraction, welcoming up to 75 vendors, art projects, children’s activities, and family-friendly competitions.
Among the many volunteers were students from Wallenpaupack Area High School, who assisted under the guidance of Mrs. Mitschele. For the past 19 years, Mrs. Mitschele and her students have helped bring the Hawley Hoedown to life by volunteering at a variety of activity stations which include face painting, pumpkin painting, crafts, and children’s games— some of the festival’s most popular attractions.
Maria Barretta, Anthony Lin, Silvia Cremona, Chloe Steuhl, Madyson Steuhl, Gabriela Torres, Bethany Day, Olivia Jones, Paige Brodhead, Avery Ruggiero, Lily Fox, Ashley De Jesus, Ben Alveari, and Devin Reinking were among the many volunteers were students from Wallenpaupack Area High School, who assisted under the guidance of Mrs. Mitschele. For the past 19 years, Mrs. Mitschele and her students have helped bring the Hawley Hoedown to life by volunteering at a variety of activity stations which include face painting, pumpkin painting, crafts, and children’s games— some of the festival’s most popular attractions.
In addition, students helped with the horse-drawn wagon rides which carry visitors through the scenic Autumn streets of Hawley, Pennsylvania—a tradition that captures the small-town charm and community spirit the event celebrates. Through their continued involvement, Wallenpaupack’s students demonstrate the school’s commitment to service and local spirit.
