By: Amy Rowley
For two days, Saturday, May 19th and Sunday, May 20th, families and young people of all ages can come together to enjoy the Lacey community. This year marks the 25th Anniversary of the Lacey Spring Fun Fair and it promises to be an action packed event.
Ruth Weigelt, the event’s coordinator, seems to have unlimited energy. With her core team of volunteers, Weigelt has been producing the event for 20 years. “My favorite part is witnessing the community come together to put on this event. I love seeing the smiles on young children’s faces while they are having so much fun,” explains Weigelt with a laugh.
In celebration of their 25th Anniversary, a Grand Parade has been added to the weekend’s line-up. The Grand Parade will be on Saturday, May 19th beginning at 6:00 pm. The parade route will proceed along Pacific Avenue SE, past St. Martin’s University, and conclude at Huntamer Park in Lacey. “The parade will include floats, horses, vintage cars, clowns and more. Stake your place out early along the route to take in the great spectacle and enjoy an old fashioned street parade,” encourages Jeannette Sieler of Lacey Parks & Recreation.
Courtney Schrieve, Communications and Community Relations Director for North Thurston Public Schools (NTPS) serves on the event’s steering committee. “Our students and staff perform, attend, and participate in all aspects of this amazing family community event. It is a great opportunity for our families to celebrate our community in a safe and fun environment,” describes Schrieve.
The Lacey Spring Fun Fair combines live entertainment, vendors, a parade, with the popular Kid’s World activities to create a great experience for families with kids of all ages. There truly is “something for everyone”. This year, the planning team has also added a 300’ zip line which promises to be a fun attraction for teenagers and adults.
In Kid’s World, organizers have created the perfect environment for kids. By partnering with local community groups and businesses, St. Martin’s University’s Marcus Pavilion is converted into a kid’s paradise with more than 60 booths tailored for kids of all ages. Venture outside the Pavilion to jump on inflatables or hop on a train ride. “Where else can you create masterpieces of art, listen to two stages of entertainment, jump on a fire truck, talk to your local police officer, and get your face painted all in one place,” remarks Weigelt. “Or, ride the circus train, slide down a giant slide, meet Ronald McDonald, watch a parade or two and see a show, all without spending a dime,” adds Sieler.
“Lacey Spring Fun Fair is a great opportunity for families to enjoy time together at a free community event,” says Ron White Director of Child Care Services at the South Sound YMCA. “At the event there are a lot of opportunities for parents to learn about community resources,” he continues.
Community partners are out in force to educate Thurston County residents about their organizations and services. As an example, NTPS and South Sound Reading Foundation will partner this year to distribute free children’s books. “At our booth, children will make their own book marks or paper books,” says Schrieve.
“We love this event because it’s all about the kids! It’s fun and it’s free so thousands of kids and their families attend. We get to encourage their love of reading by helping children select a free book. It’s really a win, win,” states Jennifer Williamson-Forster, Executive Director of the South Sound Reading Foundation.
A wide range of other activities are available. For example, you can jump aboard a hybrid bus and then learn more about vanpools, Dial-A-Ride, and other services offered by Intercity Transit. “The Lacey Spring Fun Fair provides a great opportunity to connect with our community and show them how clean our buses are and how friendly the drivers are too,” explains Donna Feliciano, part of Intercity Transit’s Marketing team.
At noon on Saturday, community members are invited to join in the Family Fun Parade. Bring your wackiest hat, costume or most creative instrument and join in the 1/2 mile walking parade around the Fun Fair.
“If you haven’t been to the event before – GO! You’ll be amazed! There’s something for everyone to enjoy… just plain fun,” summarizes Feliciano.
Lacey Spring Fun Fair
St. Martin’s University
5300 Pacific Ave SE
Lacey, WA 98503
Saturday, May 19th
10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sunday, May 20th
11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Free round-trip bus shuttle service is available on Saturday from 10:00 am – 5:15 pm from the South Sound Mall, Flag Pavilion parking lot. Fair-goers are also encouraged to use Intercity Transit.
