ORANGE PARK — Orange Park Elementary welcomed the first of many guests to their Fall Festival in 1939.

There were a few booths, games and prizes. And they made a profit of $21.11. Yet, the smiles and excitement of the students was vigorous. And years later, the tradition continues as the annual event has continued to mark its place as a staple at the oldest school in Clay County.

The school will welcome students and families once again for fun and games on Friday, Oct. 23, just in time to celebrate its 99th anniversary.  Families and students are invited to partake in an experience that everyone will remember, said Chairpersons Katie Etheridge and Cheyenne Jackson.

Jackson said it will be a special time for parents and students to interact with the community in a spirit-filled way. The school's courtyard will be filled with 15-20 "old school" carnival games with various surprises in store, like a paper machete Frankenstein, a toilet paper toss and the ever-so-popular cake walk.

There will also be food, an inflatable bounce house, axe throwing and trucks from both the fire and police departments will be available for children to explore. 

This year will also feature a few new additions, including a cotton candy machine and a silent disco party hosted by Kill the Noise. 

"We have added a few new booths this year to try to bring something a little bit different, some freshness," Jackson said.

The process of putting the event together, Etheridge added, consists of early mornings and late nights making sure that everything is perfect leading up to the big day. 

"We actually start talking about it as soon as the festival's over," she said. "We start talking about, 'OK, what is going to be better for next year?'"

"Then, once school starts, we get into high gear getting everything set."

The event is hosted by the PFA, and each booth is run by parents, while many also donate most of the items. Jackson said this year the school has gotten various donations from local businesses, greatly offsetting expenses.

The funds raised from the event supports activities for the students and school initiatives throughout the year, like the school's Legacy Letter program and additional school supplies.

"We've never said no to anything they've asked us for," Etheridge said.

The event has remained a staple within the Eagle community, one that generations of families remember each year. Jackson, who was a student herself, said it brings her joy to be able to share something so special with her children.

"I feel it's where parents want their kids to be," she said. "The parents that are very involved and want to be involved definitely thrive to get their kids here. And [think about] what they can do for the school to make it better."

The event will run from 4-7 p.m.  Tickets for games and food can be purchased at the gate.