More than 3,500 people flocked to Montgomery County Community College’s Blue Bell Campus to enjoy the Big Rig Roundup Friday evening, Sept. 23, and the annual Whitpain Community Festival Saturday afternoon and evening, Sept. 24.

At the Big Rig Roundup, kids of all ages had a close look at the unique trucks and equipment used by the local fire, police and public works departments and enjoyed games and activities. The event also included a minimal noise half-hour without sirens or horns.

The fun continued on Saturday at noon when the Whitpain Community Festival started with children’s games, face painting, a pumpkin patch, petting zoo, pony rides, hayrides, inflatables and craft vendors. Several food trucks supplied a wide variety of favorite foods, and local breweries were busy in the beer garden.

During the afternoon, MCCC students hosted a wellness expo with exhibits of health care information and related games and activities for children. They also helped to register volunteers for the National Bone Marrow Registry. Anyone between the ages of 18 and 60 can submit a cheek swab and complete the required paperwork to be added to this life-saving registry.

The musical performances started at 2:30 p.m. with the popular favorite,  Fort Washington School of Rock, followed by talented Montco student band at 3:30 p.m.

At 5 p.m. singer/songwriter Alexis Cunningham took the stage and entertained the growing crowd. Born in Huntingdon, West Virginia, Cunningham got her start on YouTube, writing songs on her acoustic guitar and signed her first development deal at age 19. After moving to the Philadelphia area in 2013, she met songwriter/producer Eric Bazilian, founding member of the Philadelphia rock band, The Hooters, and collaborated on several projects. Most recently, Cunningham released her second single, “Working on a Miracle,” on NBC’s American Song Contest.

This year’s main act, Chicago 9 Tribute Band, kept the crowd singing along until it was time for the spectacular fireworks display that closed out the evening.

MCCC and Whitpain Township thank the many volunteers who made these events possible and this year’s sponsors, including presenting sponsors Baird Foley Hillsley Group, Montgomery County Community College’s Lively Arts Series and Whitpain Township Parks and Recreation Department; gold sponsors Chambers Associates; silver sponsors American Heritage Credit Union, Ardent Credit Union, Genisys Credit Union, Janney Montgomery Scott – Patitucci Wealth Management, McCaffrey’s Food Markets, Mid Atlantic Construction, Patient First, PECO, Sesame/Rockwood Camps, TD Bank, and Whitpain Police Association; bronze sponsor Kaplin, Stewart, Meloff, Reiter & Stein, P.C.; and contributing sponsors Goldfish Swim School and Institute of Addiction Medicine.