FamilyFest returns to the Denver area on February 7 at the Arapahoe Event Center. The events showcase dozens of activities and entertainment, including appearances by popular characters from the “Ghostbusters” franchise and “Zero Waste Superhero” Jessica Jane Robinson.
Robinson, who created the graphic novel character “Resilience” as a symbol of hope and optimism in fighting to save the planet, regularly appears in front of elementary and middle school aged children in schools and other event settings dressed as Resilience. Her message is simple: “All of us can make zero waste happen in our everyday lives, and it’s important to help kids understand exactly how in a way they can relate to,” says Robinson.
The Diaper Derby, a “crawling race” for babies 12 months and younger, has become a very popular tradition for all the events, and led to the creation last year of the Toddler Derby, a walking or running race for toddlers 12 to 24 months. There are prizes for the winners of each division.
Other activities and entertainment include a special exhibit from the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Children’s Hospital Colorado Healthy Kids Zone, Huey the Dinosaur from Dinosaur ridge, early childhood education displays, resources for new parents, cookie decorating, balloon twisting, face painting, build-a-spine, spin and everyone wins, martial art demos, games, painting, temporary tattoos, dance lessons, corn hole tournaments, games, crafts and much more.
“The show is broad enough for really young families with babies and toddlers,” says says event producer Shael Buchen, “as well as families with older children up to about age 10.”
Buchen puts more emphasis on offering what amounts to a parent resource center than most other “family expos,” showcasing services and information for parents with kids from 0-10, as well as college planning and other resources for young families.
Admission for all kids under 12 is free. Adults pay $12 in advance, $16 at the door. For further information on the large array of activities and exhibitors at the event, check out the website at www.FamilyFests.com.
Find tickets here.
