CANASERAGA - Events and contests of all kinds brought fun for the entire Canaseraga community at its fourth annual Harvest Festival over the weekend.

"It's been an absolutely wonderful experience," Mayor Robert Ames said Sunday. "The weather's been beautiful and we've had outstanding crowds. It's a good community effort and a lot of people should be thanked for the jobs they've done."

Ames said the "Hairy Woman of Klipnocky" contest was especially enjoyable for residents to view, as well as an antique car show on Sunday that brought more than 70 cars to the Canaseraga Village Park.

He said Saturday's pork barbecue and Sunday's chicken barbecue sold out, and that vendors were "well pleased" with their sales, with apples being the most popular item among children.

Saturday began with a parade that started at the American Legion and ended at the park, where residents were treated to Mr. Bao the Clown entertaining children, and various musical bands performing on stage. Hot air balloon rides and arts and crafts activities also went on throughout the day.

Sunday's activities included the antique car show from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., as well the Little Beards Mountain Men reenactment group encamping in the park and showing audiences early lifestyles of people living in what used to be the mountainous region of Canaseraga. The "Hairy Woman of Klipnocky" contest featured men dressing up as women and competing for the best costume.

"That contest was very funny," Ames said. "I was surprised with the number of contestants we had."

The event was coordinated by village treasurer and committee board member Harry Reed.

Ames said he 'can't wait' for next year's 2005 Harvest Festival.

"It was just a great time," he said. "We had people from out of town, as well as residents, coming together and celebrating something that should be enjoyed for a long time in Canaseraga."