Dozens of tents featuring local business, civic organizations, and vendors filled West Broad Sreet in the downtown section of Quakertown for the annual Autumn Alive event.

            The Quakertown community welcomed fall with the annual Autumn Alive event. The unusually warm fall day provided a great outdoors day and there were over 70 vendors selling food, crafts and handmade items.  The vibe was happy and upbeat as people socialized and enjoyed the local goods, music, food. And dogs in costumes.

            The pet costume parade and contest is always a big hit. Pet owners came up with some very creative costumes. An impending storm did not keep visitors and their pups from joining in the celebration.

            Alishia Shafer and her pup C.J. won the pet costume contest. She traveled from Kunkletown to participate. She loves Halloween. "Every year we do something big. Last year we dressed up as Beetlejuice."

Addit and Colton Mercer send their vegetable and fruit racers they made, down the track in  the childrens crafts and games area.	Alishia Shafer and her 3-year-old dog C.J.,  winner of the pet costume parade.

            This year the duo pulled off a Steven King's "It" theme. C.J was dressed as Pennywise. An entire set was created to portray the scariest clown in the world. Despite being a really cute dog, C.J. pulled off the Pennywise character.

            The aroma of delicious eats could be enjoyed on every corner of the plaza. Big Poppas, Backyard BBQ, and Oinks food truck were just a few of the food vendors. There were smaller booths selling handmade savory and sweet treats. Beer, wine and warm drinks were also available.

            Some of the vendors included Berks Clucks, Harley Hill Alpacas, Meadowsweet Herbs, and Opportunity Barks Dog Training. The alpacas and ducks were a welcome addition to the venue.

            Of the many vendors, one of the most interesting was Creepy Dolls of Perkasie.

            Denise Kennedy breathes new life into unwanted dolls. With incredible artistic talent, she recreates these into creepy gems. The dolls all have names and stories. As she works on the dolls, their names and backstories come to her. Denise has a secret proprietary mix for painting the dolls that only adds to their mystique and allure.

Irish step dancers from Aisling Mor Academy of Irish Dance in Hatfield, performing on  stage.  The group was one of three featured on the stage in the triangle.

            This writer was completely intrigued and pulled in by the beautiful but macabre creations. Denise shared that she got the idea when perusing a thrift store. She heard a little girl say to her mom, "Look at that creepy doll."

            Denise thought, "Maybe I can make that doll creepier." That is when her journey into her unusual art form unfolded.

            According to Denise, the dolls are very popular, especially with young people. They are different and unique. People are drawn to the creepiness and aliveness that the dolls exhibit. Their eyes truly follow you. This writer witnessed it!

            Dolls (and clowns) have always scared this writer. However, these dolls pulled me in. The perfect trigger for Halloween fright.

            If you're into edgy art, check out her Facebook page @creepydollsperkasie.

            If you were unable to check out Autumn Alive this year, consider next year. It is family and community-oriented and animal-friendly.

            It's a great time.