NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Nick Mantello, known for his photography, has been selected as the grand marshal for the upcoming 69th annual Fall Foliage Parade presented by 1Berkshire. 

 

The parade will step off at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 5, from Old State Street and march through downtown North Adams with the theme "To Northern Berkshire and Beyond!"

 

Mantello is a city native and a familiar sight taking pictures at community gatherings, including La Festa Baseball Exchange, SteepleCats games, the Downtown Celebration, the Eagle Street Beach Party, Winterfest, Motorama, Pop Cares' events, Neighborhood Night Out, and Trunk or Treat. From small neighborhood events to citywide celebrations, he has helped ensure that the stories of the North Berkshire community shine brightly for all to see. 

 

He is also known for his drone work with his partner in crime, "Larry the Drone," and serves as the official photographer for the North Adams Fire Department, posting his images on the North Adams 911 Facebook page. Mantello will be marching in this year's parade, drone in hand.

 

"I don't make any money from my photographs, but the compliments from members of the community are worth more than money," he said.

 

Fall Foliage Week kicked off with the annual Leaf Hunt and a barbecue and a Soapbox Derby race on Main Street. 

 

The Dog Costume Parade will be held on Thursday, Oct. 2, at 6 p.m. and is open to all pets and their owners and First Friday on Oct. 3 will carry the theme with gallery openings and an InsideOut Night Market on Holden Street, which will be closed off, and feature a large format projection art by Pamela Hersch after dark. 

 

The Mill Town Circus also opens on Friday night at Noel Field with "Tunnel & Balloon," inspired by the Hoosac Tunnel and the city's past history as a ballooning center. The show runs this weekend and through Indigenous Peoples/Columbus Day.

 

The Children's Parade and Fair will again be held at Noel Field, with the parade beginning at 10 am. and races at noon. It will include booths by local organizations, music, games giveaways and activities. 

 

The annual Fall Foliage 5K starts at noon on Sunday at Ashland and Main Street. Register here. 

 

There is still time to participate in this year's parade, including entering a float, a band/music unit, or a marching unit. Organizers are also looking for volunteers to help on parade day with the lineup or as a banner carrier. Lastly, sponsorship of the parade is also appreciated.

 

Note that Curran Highway will be closed from Pedrin's to Main Street and parts of the downtown including Ashland Street beginning at 10 a.m. on Sunday. 

 

 For more information, visit 1Berkshire.com.