Family fun in the park
Saturday event seeks volunteers
This weekend, at least two face painters — Cat Kidd and Tara Clark — will be at the Family Fun Day at Ludington Park. (Photo by Michael Morse)
This logo designed for a new event to take place this Saturday was created by Kelly Tovar. (Courtesy image)
This weekend, at least two face painters — Cat Kidd and Tara Clark — will be at the Family Fun Day at Ludington Park. (Photo by Michael Morse)
This logo designed for a new event to take place this Saturday was created by Kelly Tovar. (Courtesy image)
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ESCANABA -- Local parents, businesses and volunteers are putting together a "Family Fun Day" in Ludington Park on Saturday.
From toddlers to teens, the focus is on children -- creating a space and time for outdoor activities and fun social engagement.
"There was a need, I felt, to create a day that is like the circus meets field day meets summer camp," said organizer and mother Kristi Humphrey, noting that one intent of the event was to provide youngsters with a departure from digital screens.
Free activities and attractions planned for the event at Escanaba's waterfront park between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. include multiple bounce houses for various age groups, relay races, an obstacle course, disc golf, potato sack races, tug-of-war, three-legged races, a climbing tower, rope bridge, bean bag toss, mini putt-putt, bubbles, dress-up and a make-believe stage, dancing, face-painting, entertainers, crafts and projects.
Children who benefit from a quieter, less stimulating environment -- including children with autism, sensory sensitivities, and/or developmental disabilities -- may wish to attend the early-opening sensory-friendly time, which starts at 9 a.m. A quiet corner with weighted blankets, lights, and something cozy to sit on will also be available throughout the event if the need arises.
"Kids of all ages deserve a day of pure joy and laughter in the outdoors. Many events charge fees, so we wanted to make sure that this event is as cost-effective for families as it can be," said Humphrey.
She hopes to eventually make Family Fun Day an annual festivity that grows year over year. After planning for the event began months ago, a small committee has wrangled together a number of participating parties for Saturday.
Primary sponsors are Vagabond Campground and Resort, Sign UP Graphics, The Tovar Co. and We Rock The Spectrum.
Donors are the Escanaba Downtown Development Authority, which will set up its stage; Beaten Path, who is providing discs; Humphrey Home Renovations; T&T True Value; Tara Clark; Meli Welton; and Jim Gehling.
While most of the activities will be free, some vendors and food trucks are also slated to attend the event. Move it with Meli, Blue Cat Creations, Mighty Macarons, Drinkie's Lemonade, Desserts by Dom, Simply Paradise Treats, Wingz N’ Thingz, Iron Hoss Kitchen, The Red Barn and Below Zero Eats and Treats.
Kelly Tovar, a member of the planning committee, helped secure vendors in addition to creating an event logo and flyers.
"I am hoping that this event will bring families out for a day full of free (and) low cost activities for all ages," Tovar said. "I especially love that we strive to offer a safe and welcoming space for those with sensory sensitivities to be included."
Mad Marbles Entertainment Services -- which is providing houses, a large slide, yard games, and balloon twisting -- is looking forward to helping create experiences at Family Fun Day.
"Beyond our individual personal beliefs, I believe there is something really special about coming together as a community. We may not all think alike, but we can still come together to support our families, our local businesses, our neighbors, and the community we all call home," said Mad Marbles co-owner Kelsey Hunter.
Still open to the addition of more activities, games, craft supplies and more, Humphrey encourages anyone with ideas, time to volunteer and/or materials to donate or lend to get in touch with her at 906-280-4132 or FamilyFunDay49829@gmail.com.
"Think hiking, running ... bocce ball sets, soccer balls, weightlifting, balance boards, Bop Its, hula hoops, jump ropes, et cetera," she remarked.
Anyone willing to get involved and assisting with operations on Saturday is encouraged to get in touch with Humphrey by the contact info above.
As of Tuesday evening, there was a chance of rain for early in the day on Saturday. If foul weather necessitates a rescheduling, the rain date will be the next day, Sunday.
For now, participating parties are gearing up for what they hope will become a thriving, continuing event in the recreational area of downtown.
"Ludington Park is one of the best features Escanaba and we wanted to utilize it in a way that hasn’t been done before, as well as hopefully promote business in the area as well," Humphrey said.