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With the weather getting colder, it is likely that your children have become a little stir crazy. The good news is that whether you are looking for an outdoor activity for your kids to enjoy on a beautiful day or for something they can do when the weather is rough, there are plenty of family-friendly activities in and around the Hatfield area. The Little Gym The Little Gym has created a unique set of classes to help your little one get an educational and physically active experience at the same time. They will learn discipline and work on their physical strength in a karate class, work to improve their sports skillset, get some parent and me time, take dance lessons, or study gymnastics. The first introductory class is free, and it can be the perfect location to host a birthday party, as well. Briar Brush Nature Center If you are looking for a fun outdoor activity for your kids to get out and get some fresh air and exercise, while learning about the nature in the area, make sure the Briar Brush Nature Center is on your itinerary. The nature center has been a part of the community for more than a century, where visitors can come see the natural flora and fauna that are prevalent in the state. Whether you are looking for some indoor or outdoor activities to keep your child active and let them have some fun, you are more than covered in the Hatfield area. Image via Flickr by MTSOfan

The leaves are slowly changing, and the air is getting crisper, but there are still many events in the Hatfield area that you won't want to miss. From fun family-filled days to the perfect date night activities, we're sharing our favorite fall events. Here are four annual fall events that shouldn't be missed. New Oxford Harvest Day This local event is the perfect day for your family to enjoy the pumpkin season with fun family activities. The children will love the parade and the local craft show, and great-tasting food will keep you and the family happy for hours. RocktoberFest Head over to School Road Park for a day filled with more fun than any one person can handle. This event might have started as a car show, but over the years, it has transformed into one of the best places to be. You'll find arts and crafts, live music, children's activities, and food trucks. Spirits and Broos Treat yourself and your friends to a frightful night out with delicious food and crafted cocktails. You'll find everything you need for an adult night out from live music to beer and even adult craft stations. You'll want to be there for sure. Nightmare Before Tinsel It sure will be a ghoulish night out at this Halloween-themed bar. The bar comes complete wit Instagram-worthy creepy photo decor, including a zombie wall, spider webs, and 1,001 eyes. Don't miss out on these annual fall events in the Hatfield Area. Image via Flickr by Rennett Stowe

Cooler temperatures don’t just affect your desire to put on a sweater and sip hot chocolate, they also affect your vehicle’s battery.  Winter will be here before you know it, so Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA recommends knowing these facts about how winter affects your car battery:   Winter affects your car battery in unique ways, causing it to not perform as well.  Here are four main reasons for that.   1) Thicker oil: in winter, your engine’s oil thickens up, which means it doesn’t flow through the system as well.  Thus, your battery has to work harder to start the engine.   2) Increased workload: on a nasty winter's day, you could be running the heater, defroster, windshield wipers, and headlights – all at once.  Not surprisingly, over a long period, this puts a big strain on the car’s battery.   3) Lower capacity: cold temperatures affect the battery’s ability to generate power.  In fact, in winter, a car battery can lose as much as 20 percent of capacity when the temperature drops below 32 degrees.  If your car battery is weak, winter can do it in and there you are, waiting in a snowy parking lot for someone to give you a jump.   4) Slower recharging:  the alternator automatically “recharges” the battery as you drive.  However, that recharge rate slows in winter months.   According to Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA, some common signs that winter is affecting your car battery include headlights that glow “yellow” instead of bright white, an engine that cranks more slowly, a funky “rotten egg” smell or a dome light that appears dimmer.   You’re also at risk for winter battery failure if yours is more than three years old. Just like checking your tires, checking the state of your battery before winter is essential.  The service experts at Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA are happy to help get your car battery ready for winter.

The popular Toyota Sienna minivan has been dubbed the “Swagger Wagon” for its exceptional style and design. This is no “plain vanilla” minivan.  The Toyota Sienna gives you all the practical room and features that a busy family needs, but includes eye-catching details that will set you apart from the usual suspects on the road.  The 2020 model of the Sienna includes some special new details which you can see up close at Peruzzi Toyota. For 2020, every trim level of the Sienna features Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay as standard.  This makes accessing things like your phone, maps, music and more - super-easy. Also standard is Toyota’s “Safety Sense P” package, which features innovations like Lane Departure Alert warning, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control to keep you safer on long drives and Pre-Collision Warning with Pedestrian Detection.  Additional safety features include Brake Assist, Smart Stop Technology, and Traction Control. Slide inside the spacious, comfy interior and tap the 7-inch touch screen to easily connect with your apps, music and more. The wider dashboard, surrounded by elegant soft-touch features, keeps you in full control of cabin climate, driving features, your technology and more.  A new acoustic windshield (on the SE trim level) makes the cabin even quieter (except, perhaps when the kids are laughing over the movies they're watching on the available Dual-View Blu-ray Disc Entertainment Center which includes a 16.4-inch color display and more.) Plus, eight airbags will keep your family and passengers safe. One big addition to the 2020 Toyota Sienna is the “Nightshade Edition.” This special premium trim version is far sportier, featuring a spoiler, sport mesh front grille, mirror caps and more.  The all-black interior contrasts nicely against the four sleek exterior colors (Midnight Black Metallic, Celestial Silver Metallic, Salsa Red Pearl and Super White). When you swing through the school drop-off lane, you’re guaranteed to make one heck of an impression. Bottom line:  the 2020 Toyota Sienna is the minivan for people who don’t “like” minivans.  Stylish, safe, and tech-savvy, this vehicle will serve you and your family well for years to come.  Come by Peruzzi Toyota and have a look.

The Toyota brand is well-known for being comfortable, dependable and always striving to develop leading-edge technology features.  But the automaker also likes to take their vehicles out into new territory to test their performance - and maybe learn a few things to make Toyota even better. (And sometimes, it’s just plain fun!)  Peruzzi Toyota wanted to share some recent news, because everyday drivers may just be seeing some of these technologies showing up in their next new Toyota. The 2020 version of Toyota’s Supra model recently pushed some limits at California’s Buttonwillow Raceway.  Just a little bit of context: at the challenging Buttonwillow course, any lap time of under two minutes is considered impressive.  Well, the 2020 Supra took to the track and hit its mark in a minute and 59 seconds.  Considering that the vehicle is powered by a 3.0 liter, V6 turbo engine that kicks up to 335 HP, those results are even more eye-opening. Plus, the 2020 Toyota Supra was up against other sportscar-type models that are far more expensive. Toyota has done a thorough redesign of the Supra engine to ensure that it wrings every bit of power out of it; that redesign proved itself handsomely on the Buttonwillow track. While no one is advocating trying to hit a 2-minute track record on your average Main Street, it’s nice to know that you can find a sporty yet reliable car that’s fun to drive.  The 2020 Toyota Supra fits that bill nicely and is a great choice for anyone who hopes to trade in the family minivan for something a little sexier (that won’t break the bank.) Unlike higher-end models, this one won’t ever let you down. Swing by Peruzzi Toyota to learn more about this exciting “next development” in Toyota design and technology!

Drivers who love to take the “road less traveled” have learned that the Toyota 4Runner is an always-reliable companion: sturdy, comfortable and fun to drive.  This well-built SUV model is the smart choice when you need a vehicle that can do it all, from the school pickup to a weekend wilderness getaway.  For 2020, Toyota has unveiled a new version of the 4Runner with the “Venture” edition.  Peruzzi Toyota can fill you in on all the details, but here’s the deal on this exciting new SUV. For those times you and the family head out into wilder territory, the “Venture” edition has you covered with plenty of high-tech functionality. The standard CRAWL control gives you smart ways to steer through challenging terrain, providing extra traction and reducing wheel slippage in areas of sand, dirt or rock. Naturally, as with all Toyotas, the Toyota Safety Sense suite of features come standard on the 4Runner “Venture.”  That includes automatic high beams, lane departure alert, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection and much more. Outside of the Toyota 4Runner’s already-sturdy design, the “Venture” edition features the Megawarrior roof rack, constructed of heavy-duty steel.  This provides roomy top storage for all that extra gear.  And from muddy soccer cleats to wet camping gear, the Toyota 4Runner “Venture” keeps the interior clean with standard all-weather floor mats, including a rear cargo mat. Inside the 4Runner “Venture” is an updated multimedia system controlled via a luxe 8-inch touch screen.  You’ll toggle effortlessly through your apps, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa and Bluetooth (the 2 USB ports in the rear seats also come in handy for charging devices).  Another instrumentation panel provides instant updates on key functions like fuel economy, tire pressure, and other important features.  And you’ll appreciate the Smart Key with Push Button Start. If you’re looking for the next-generation SUV that takes things up a notch, the Toyota 4Runner “Venture” edition is a great fit.  Want to learn more?  The friendly sales experts at Peruzzi Toyota will answer all your questions – and help make 2020 even more exciting!

The Toyota Land Cruiser has provided drivers with the perfect mix of luxury and ruggedness for 60 years. This SUV is sophisticated both inside and out while offering off-road capabilities. The 2020 model continues to celebrate its past with the new Heritage Edition. The Performance The Land Cruiser comes with a 5.7-liter V-8 engine that produces 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. It also comes with systems such as dual-independent variable valve timing and acoustic control induction to help make the most of its power. An independent double-wishbone suspension that has coil springs and a front stabilizer bar helps to get you over rough terrain. Off-Road Technology A multi-terrain monitor provides a complete view of your surroundings. Just press a button to see up front, around the back, and each side on the 9-inch navigation screen. Use the multi-terrain select system to choose the performance you need for the current road or off-road surface. Select from rock, rock and dirt, mogul, mud and sand, or loose rock. The Luxurious Cabin The cabin has room for up to eight people, and the front-seat riders get multistage heated and ventilated seats. The second row has a 60/20/40 split, and the available third-row seat has a 50/50 split. There is a leather-trimmed, heated steering wheel, and four-zone automatic climate control. The 2020 Land Cruiser will take you where you want to go whether it's down the highway or over rugged terrain, and it will do it with style and luxury.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid combines everything you love about the Highlander SUV with an even more fuel-efficient powertrain. It has an impressive list of features that comes standard, and it offers a quiet and comfortable ride. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid proves an SUV can get good gas mileage. The Powertrain The hybrid powertrain in the Highlander is a 3.5-liter V-6 gas engine and three electric motors. These combine to produce 306 horsepower. All-wheel-drive comes standard along with an electronically controlled eCVT. This SUV has plenty of power and can tackle the highway with ease and get you over winding back roads too. When equipped, the Highlander Hybrid has enough power to tow up to 3,500 pounds. AWD-i The electronic on-demand all-wheel-drive system makes the Highlander feel secure no matter where you drive. The electric motor uses an intelligent on-demand system. It creates instant torque that goes immediately to the rear wheels when the system senses that you need more traction. Take this fuel-efficient SUV out on snowy roads, or up to the mountains on a weekend getaway. The Interior Space You don't have to give up passenger or cargo space to get an efficient SUV with the Highlander Hybrid. There are three rows of seats, room for up to eight people, and a cargo area with 138 cubic feet of space with all the seats up. Opt for the second-row captain's chairs for added comfort, and you can also fold down the seats and carry over 83 cubic feet of gear. The 2019 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is fuel-efficient and offers everything you want in an SUV.

The Toyota Camry is a sleek looking and extremely functional sedan. It comes with an impressive list of standard features and offers a smooth, comfortable ride. For the 2019 model, Toyota added Apple CarPlay making it easy to stay connected while you are on the road. Here is why the 2019 Camry is more than a car to get things done. The Technology Toyota's Entune system comes standard in the Camry, and this has a 7-inch touch screen, a USB port, a Wi-Fi hot spot, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth. You can add wireless charging for your smartphone, along with an 8-inch touch screen that comes with an upgraded version of the infotainment system. The Cabin The spacious cabin has room for five people and lots of storage compartments. In the back, the cargo area has 15 cubic feet of storage space with the rear seats up. These have a 60/40 split so you can adjust the amount of passenger seating and storage space depending on what you need. The Safety Features You'll stay safe in the Camry while you get things done since it has a number of standard driver aids. All models have a rearview camera, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and pedestrian detection. Other standard safety features include lane keep assist, automatic high beam headlights, and lane-keep assist. If you want more, a 360-degree surround-view camera is an available option, and you can also add a head-up display and automatic rearward braking. Get your errands or work done with ease while in the 2019 Toyota Camry. Test drive one today and see for yourself!

If you're looking for a fun day out and around Hatfield, a festival may be just the ticket. Whether you are a foodie or an outdoor enthusiast, there is something for everyone. Check out these annual festivals in and around Hatfield. Valley Forge Beer and Cider Festival The Valley Forge Beer and Cider Festival is in its ninth year of serving up holiday-themed fun for cider and beer lovers. The festival features more than 150 varieties of beer and cider from around the world. Food trucks are available throughout the festival. This event is a fundraiser for the Committee to Benefit the Children. TASTE! PHILADELPHIA Festival of Food, Wine & Spirits Held at the newly renovated convention center, this festival has features sure to please food-lovers. There are celebrity chef demonstrations as well as educational hands-on seminars. Be sure to arrive at the TASTE! PHILADELPHIA Festival of Food, Wine &  Spirits hungry. At the many display exhibits, you can enjoy tastings from wineries, breweries, and distilleries as well as samples from the areas best chefs. Upper Perkiomen Bird and Wildlife Festival If you love the outdoors, check out the Upper Perkiomen Bird and Wildlife Festival. This free festival takes place at Green Lane Park and is a day of fun and learning for the whole family. For the kids, there are puppet shows, live animals, and games. Adults can enjoy live music and craft vendors. Get out there and enjoy the beautiful weather in and around Hatfield. These annual events offer good food, good music, and lots of family fun. Photo via Flickr by seanmfreese

Pennsylvania has an abundance of fun activities and attractions for the whole family. Get the kids out and active, bring them to a museum, or to a historic park where they can learn about the history of the state. Here are some Hatfield area attractions that are fun for the whole family. Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle Take a drive to Doylestown to check out the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle. The kids can see how people lived in the 1850s, and get a firsthand look at how different life was like before the industrial revolution. The Fonthill Castle is about a mile from the museum and offers guided tours where you can see the Medieval and Gothic architecture. Spring Mountain Adventures Spring Mountain is less than a 30-minute drive from Hatfield, and since winter is right around the corner, it's a great time to plan a trip. You can all take skiing or snowboarding lessons together or practice your skills. There are runs for all levels including green, blue, and even some double black diamond trails. Thunderbird Bowling Center Take the whole family to Thunderbird Bowling Center for a fun night out. There are bumpers available if you have young kids that need some extra help, and this is a great place to plan a birthday party. Thunderbird is a smoke-free bowling alley, making it the perfect place for family fun. Check out these Hatfield area attractions for your next family outing. Gather the kids and get out and enjoy all that Pennsylvania has to offer. Image via Flickr by Montgomery County Planning Commission

So, you’re tooling down the road, tunes playing, the skies are blue…and then the "Check Engine” light flashes on your dashboard. You know exactly what happens next, a sweaty feeling in the pit of your stomach, anxiety over what’s going on under the hood.  Bottom line: it’s not fun. The service experts at Peruzzi Toyota are here to put your mind at ease with the five most common reasons the “Check Engine” light comes on (these are in no particular order).  And we’re always available to assess what’s going on, and if need be, fix it quickly and affordably. #1:  The gas cap is loose It sounds silly, but often, the “check engine” light comes on when the gas cap isn’t screwed on securely enough.  The cap maintains pressure inside the fuel tank, so if it’s loose, it might send an “off” message to the engine.  Before you head to a mechanic, take a moment to ensure that the gas cap is on tight. #2: You need new spark plugs The spark plugs ignite the mix of fuel and air inside the combustion chamber.  You may notice problems when you start the engine, or when you’re accelerating.  Your fuel efficiency may also be “off.”  Don’t wait too long to get them checked (and maybe, replaced).  Faulty spark plugs can result in clogs in the catalytic converter and problems with the O2 sensor.  And on a related note… #3:  Your O2 sensor is wonky The O2 sensor is meant to measure the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust system.  It's a vital part for fuel-efficiency.  When your "check engine" light comes on, you may also notice a drop-in fuel efficiency at the same time.  These are key indicators that you need Peruzzi Toyota to have a look at what’s going on. #4: You need a new mass airflow sensor The “check engine” light may come one when your engine isn’t getting the correct mix of air and fuel.  This is exactly what the mass airflow sensor is designed to do.  Other indicators that this part needs review are issues when you accelerate or in reduced fuel-efficiency.  You won't want to wait on having a look at this: a faulty sensor can damage your catalytic converter, spark plugs and more -- and that can lead to far more expensive problems. #5: The catalytic converter needs replacing The catalytic converter takes harmful carbon monoxide and turns it into more environmentally friendly carbon dioxide emissions.  The "check engine" light may come on if this part starts to fail.  You may get an advance heads-up if the engine is running hotter than usual. Having the "check engine" light come on can be distressing, but it's not un-fixable.  Let the experts at Peruzzi Toyota have a look at whatever is ailing your engine; we'll have you back up and running before you know it.