As part of its mission to foster community spirit and provide valuable resources for youth, the Sisters Park & Recreation District (SPRD) hosted another successful edition of Kids Fest. The event not only showcased the creativity and generosity of local exhibitors but also celebrated significant milestones for SPRD's ongoing projects.
The heart of Kids Fest lies in its ability to connect families with the diverse range of services and programs available within the community. Attendees had the opportunity to interact with representatives from various organizations, each offering unique insights into their contributions to local life. From health providers to arts groups, these exhibitors collectively painted a vivid picture of the support network available to residents.
Among the highlights was the presence of law enforcement and emergency services personnel, who delighted children with demonstrations of their equipment and techniques. Sheriff deputies from Deschutes County and officers from the Black Butte Police Department engaged visitors with interactive displays, while the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District educated attendees about fire safety through hands-on activities. Such collaborations underscored the importance of partnership in strengthening community bonds.
Kids Fest featured numerous interactive zones designed to captivate young minds and encourage exploration. One standout area was the Truck Zone, where children could climb aboard and examine various vehicles used by first responders and public service workers. This hands-on experience provided invaluable lessons about the roles these professionals play in ensuring community safety.
In addition to the Truck Zone, a bike safety course organized by the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District taught participants essential skills for responsible cycling. Through expert guidance, children learned how to navigate traffic safely and understand traffic signals, empowering them to become confident riders. These educational components added depth to the festivities, ensuring that fun was complemented by meaningful learning opportunities.
This year's Kids Fest was particularly special as it coincided with two significant events for SPRD. The organization officially unveiled its newly completed preschool playground, a project aimed at creating a nurturing environment for early childhood development. The ribbon-cutting ceremony attracted enthusiastic applause from attendees, symbolizing a step forward in enhancing recreational facilities for younger members of the community.
Beyond celebrating achievements, SPRD took the occasion to announce progress on its ambitious plans for a future community park. With construction already underway, the groundbreaking ceremony generated excitement about the possibilities this new space will offer once completed in the fall. Both milestones reflect SPRD's commitment to expanding access to quality recreational amenities for all ages.
The festive atmosphere was further enhanced by performances from local talent, including the Sisters High School Jazz Band, the Sisters Ukulele group, and dancers from the Sisters Dance Academy. Their energetic presentations created a lively backdrop against which families could enjoy the event's many attractions. Parents appreciated the chance to relax while their children engaged in enriching activities, fostering a sense of unity among participants.
Despite the warm weather, the event proceeded smoothly thanks to thoughtful planning and the cooperation of volunteers. As Jennifer Holland, executive director of SPRD, expressed her gratitude to sponsors such as Sisters Dental, Mid Oregon Credit Union, and St. Charles Health System, she emphasized the critical role they play in making such events possible. Their continued support ensures that Kids Fest remains a cherished tradition in the Sisters community.