If you’re looking to get lost in a fun, captivating story under the summer sun, the Haliburton and District Lions Club has just the event coming next week.
The fifth annual Stories in the Park fun fair takes over Head Lake Park Aug. 28. Running from noon to 2 p.m. attendees will have the chance to listen to readings from seasoned authors, enjoy games and activities provided by community service groups, and a free lunch.
While geared towards young children, the event has attracted people of all ages in recent years, said Lions club member, Gail Stelter.
“It’s gotten bigger and bigger every year,” Stelter said. “One of the major things our club is committed to is children’s literacy. When this event started, it was COVID and we had a lot of restrictions. We wanted to offer a safe event where families could come and have a bit of fun. That directive has not changed.”
More of a summertime carnival than a reading event now, Stelter said there will be lots of activities. An array of community partners, such as the Haliburton Highlands Museum, Turtle Guardians, EarlyON Child and Family Centre, Point in Time, SIRCH Community Services, and the Haliburton County Public Library will have pop-up games and stations providing information about their services.
The Haliburton Highlands OPP, Dysart et al fire department, and Haliburton Highlands EMS will also be in attendance, bringing vehicles for youth to tour.
The Lions Club is hosting a bean bag toss, mini putt, ladder toss, giant pick-up sticks, fish pond, and parachute games. Stelter said they’re also ensuring every child leaves the event with a new book, provided by the Lions Club.
Gord Kidd and friends will be putting on a family dance party, with Stelter saying there are fun photo boards, and paint-a-story activities for families. Stories will be read throughout the event by volunteers, including children’s authors Daniela Ferrante and Dina Russo-De Cotiis.
“You can paint a story, hear a story, act out a story – there’s no end to the fun people can have,” Stelter said.
She estimates the event will draw between 400 and 500 people. It’s free to attend.
“Come and see the smiles and experience the joy,” Stelter said. “Who doesn’t enjoy hearing a lovely story? When I’m doing my readings, I have as many parents listening in and laughing and having fun with us. This is community fun at its best.”
