Families looking for fall activities need look no further than Historic Oakland Cemetery. On Sunday, Oct. 1, Atlanta’s most tangible link to the past opens its gates for Sunday in the Park, a free festival and celebration of Historic Oakland Foundation’s (HOF) 40th anniversary.

From noon to 6 p.m. Sunday in the Park attendees will find activities for all ages and interests, including: living history demonstrations and presentations on Victorian mourning customs; kid’s crafts and storytelling; a Victorian costume contest; tintype photography booth; and much more. Bands and dancers will perform throughout the day, and Sunday in the Park also includes a market with wares from over 20 local artists.

“What started nearly 40 years ago as a small picnic for Oakland Cemetery’s descendants has evolved into an annual tradition,” said David Moore, HOF executive director. “In thanks to all who’ve supported Oakland over the decades, we’re happy to make Sunday in the Park a free event this year and welcome all to celebrate Oakland’s past, present, and future.”

Oakland Cemetery’s fall event season begins with its Fall Plant Sale, held Sept. 29-30. After Sunday in the Park, the cemetery hosts its 10th annual Run Like Hell 5K on Oct. 14, followed by two weekends of the acclaimed Capturing the Spirit of Oakland Halloween Tours, which sold out in July.

“All of Oakland Cemetery’s programming and events strive to be educational, entertaining, and enlightening,” said Moore. “The Foundation has grown by leaps and bounds over the past forty years, as has Atlanta. We’ll share some of our ‘greatest hits,’ at Sunday in the Park and shed some light on where we’re going.”

During Sunday in the Park, HOF will close its 40 in 40 fundraising campaign, which launched on Aug. 23 with a goal to raise $40,000 in 40 days, commemorating the organization’s 40th anniversary. Should HOF reach the 40 in 40 goal, its fundraising will be doubled with a $40,000 matching gift generously provided by John R. Moore and Jimmy L. Bryant, The Gertrude and William C. Wardlaw Fund, and anonymous donors.

All event proceeds benefit HOF’s mission to preserve, restore, enhance, and share Oakland Cemetery.