Hey Black Dad, an organization dedicated to empowering fathers and enhancing maternal healthcare outcomes, will host its third annual Fall Fest on Saturday, November 2, from 12:00 to 4:00 pm at Mill Hill Park in downtown Trenton. The family-friendly event (with a rain date set for November 9) will feature a lively array of activities, including a costume parade, entertainment, food, music, and more.
The Fall Fest began as part of founder Peter Bullock’s mission to support fathers in understanding their role in pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting. Bullock, a certified birth and postpartum doula, was inspired to create Hey Black Dad after realizing the lack of resources available for expectant fathers. Today, his organization provides guidance to families nationwide through virtual and in-person support.
“Becoming a father is one of the main rites of passage in a man’s life. As a male doula, I get to guide fathers throughout the process and educate them on their role as a dad and as a partner. It’s very rewarding,” says Bullock. “I like to see fathers smiling and knowing that they have a space both outside of childbirth and within the childbirth experience.”
The Fall Fest will provide an opportunity for families to gather, learn, and celebrate. Among the day’s highlights, DJ Special K will keep the energy high with music, while the Trenton Circus Squad will perform and offer lessons in juggling and balance acts. The drumline from Trenton Central High School will also lead a costume parade through the park.
Specialized activity areas will cater to different age groups: toddlers (age 5 and under) can explore farm-themed activities, a sand pit, and games, while older children will enjoy a treasure hunt, bounce house, and obstacle course. For parents, the Dad’s Den and Momma’s Cove will offer a chance to relax and connect. Additionally, community partners like The Father Center of New Jersey, the Central New Jersey Family Health Consortium, and the Preeclampsia Foundation will be on-site to provide resources and support.
“I see a need for more community- and family-centered events in the city of Trenton,” Bullock explains. He and his wife Donna are making them happen, just as they recognized the need for more education and resources for dad, and made that happen by founding Hey Black Dad.
“Because of Hey Black Dad, more men understand they have an important role when it comes to the birth of their child. We want them to feel confident in that role. They have a lot to offer,” he adds. “The success of this festival could not have been possible without the vision and research done by my wife, Donna.”
For more information, visit eventeny.com/events/heyblackdadfallfest-13534
