It’s not often parents can find a way to entertain their children outside of the house for free, let alone something the whole family will enjoy! Well, mark your calendars for the 2022 Lacey Children’s Day, happening Saturday, October 1 at Huntamer Park from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. – rain or shine. It’s an afternoon of free fun for the whole family!
Go Wild at Huntamer Park
This year’s theme is Go Wild. “Could be animals, could be safari attire, we’re leaving that open for the kids’ imagination!” shares Jordy Ratkie with Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation. “We encourage the businesses and organizations to decorate their booth and create their activities with that in mind, but it is not mandatory at all. Just for fun! We also encourage kids to come in costume if they so choose!”
So, break out those safari hats or zebra pants, get dressed up, and head to Huntamer Park. There will be inflatables, activities, crafts, entertainment, and games. Each booth, sponsored by a local business or organization, will have something fun for families to do together, all for free. Kids who love animals will not want to miss the Creature Teachers booth. Shanti Kriens has an enthusiastic presence and loves teaching kids about all kind of animals. She will have a variety of creatures for kids to see, learn about, and maybe even pet!
There will also be some big rigs on display for kids to explore. In the past, this has included police, North Thurston school buses, and city vehicles. And keep an eye out for the special characters roaming the park for photo ops!
Live entertainment will take place on the main stage including the Reptile Man at 1 p.m. From Monroe, Scott Petersen brings his traveling reptile zoo to delight young audiences. He is a zoologist, educator, and author that stressed the importance of animals in nature. His show includes all kinds of reptiles, even alligators! You won’t want to miss it. Other live entertainment throughout the day will include local bands and dance performances that will have you clapping, singing, and dancing along!
Chances are you’ll work up an appetite with all the fun going on! There will be food vendors, including Chick Fil A, Oly Dog House, Kona Ice, and Stevee’s Sweet Snacks. Food and snacks are the only thing you’ll will to pay for all day for your hungry safari ranger.
Host a Booth at Lacey Children’s Day
Have a business or organization and want to get in on the fun? There’s still time! You can submit an application before September 16, or until spaces are filled. Each booth must provide a free activity or giveaway for kids.
Children’s Day is presented by Chick-fil-A of Lacey, brought to you by Lacey Parks, Culture and Recreation, and in partnership with North Thurston Public Schools, Lacey Timberland Library, Friends of the Lacey Timberland Library, and The Little Gym.
For more information, visit the Lacey Children’s Day website or The City of Lacey Facebook page.
