Westminster Reformed Presbyterian Church is preparing to welcome the community to its third annual Bonfire and Barn Party.

Church member Brett Carl, one of the masterminds behind the event, said it is an opportunity “to get to know other people.”

“It’s a way to invite neighbors and friends and to have a good time,” he said.

This year’s event will take place for the second consecutive year at church member Buddy Joyner’s property at 530 Lake Kilby Road from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Oct. 28. In its inaugural year, the party was hosted at another location in Chuckatuck.

Despite the event’s name, the evening’s activities will not take place in a barn, but rather outside on an open field.

There will be a field across the street for parking.

On site at the free event, there will be live bluegrass music, square dancing, balloon animals, a hayride and pony rides for children.

Westminster encourages attendees to bring a dessert and lawn chairs to enjoy the festivities. In addition, apple cider, hot chocolate and other foods will be available, all free of charge.

Highlighting the event will be bonfires around the site, where guests can socialize and warm up from the cool, crisp autumn air.

Carl said last year’s event attracted about 300 people.

“It’s just a fun time for the community,” Carl said.