Thank you for your support and nice comments. We are very sensitive not only to the challenge of families to take on additional expense under normal conditions but even more this year. It is the reason we chose to keep our entrance fee at only $1.00 and only during the evening concerts. Once inside the park there will be additional opportunities to spend more money, on children’s rides and with food vendors. These are provided by outside vendors. We really appreciate any feedback about these vendors products, services and prices so that we can pass it along and continue to plan better for each year.

I hope you had the opportunity to attend the many free activities we offered for children last year, most of which will be repeated again this year. They include the Pet Show, Children’s Parade, Teddy Bear Picnic and Pool Party. Of course we hope that families will also enjoy the evening fireworks and parade from any location downtown. The children’s Fun Fair does include the purchase of tickets. This event provides another modest fundraiser for the Festival Committee but also supports many local non-profits. Unfortunately there are a couple of events that will not be held this year. The Bike Rodeo and Fishing Derby have met with unique challenges that result in thier cancellation for at least this year.

I would like to encourage any business or organization that is interested in sponsoring or organizing children’s events for future years to let us know. We have an amazing number of community volunteers who work all year to bring this Festival to the community. Also, you won’t want to miss the Cranberry Festival in September. ALL children’s activities are free!

Thanks again Marilyn!