We hope everyone has a chance to get out and experience one of the several community events available this weekend.

Of course, front and center is the Groves Pecan Festival.

The kickoff Thursday was great and we are sure the weekend, with the clear skies and low temperatures, will be perfect to experience the fun, family friendly festival.

But the Groves festival is not alone.

On Saturday the Nederland Fall Market Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. will give residents a chance for some early Christmas shopping and on Sunday there’s the Mexican Heritage Society Mexican Heritage Fiesta from noon until 10 p.m. at the Pavilion in Port Arthur. That fiesta features colorful dancers, delicious foods and all kinds of music and sights.

Fall festivals are a staple of small town life, but after what we have all gone through, we are extra thankful to have a fun bit of diversion to distract us from our worries. We hope residents will be sure to avail themselves of these opportunities.