Fairfield library, parks department to put on ‘When the Lights Go Out’

What happens when the lights go out at Fairfield Public Library? Storybook characters meet in Chautauqua Park.

Fairfield Public Library and the Fairfield Parks & Recreation Department are partnering to offer the “When the Lights Go Out” annual costumed storybook character event outdoors this year.

The event will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 22 at Chautauqua Park, on the east side of Fairfield. Visitors will sign in at the registration table, and volunteer tour guides will accompany them along a magical storybook trail.

“Be prepared for fun performances by The Big Bad Wolf, Geronimo Stilton, Radagast the Wizard, characters from Aladdin, and more,” said Alecs Mickunas, Fairfield youth services librarian. “Organizers been careful to avoid themes that could be upsetting for small children.”

As always, the event is free and open to the public, with programming geared toward children age 3 and up.

To reduce wait time, organizers are offering online preregistration. Visit the library’s website at www.fairfield.lib.ia.us, click on the Events Calendar tab and navigate to Oct. 22 to submit the form.

Another option for online registration is available on the library’s Facebook page, or by calling the front desk at 641-472-6551 Ext. 2 to request a time slot. Attendees may also register in-person upon arriving at Chautauqua Park.

While waiting for a tour guide, families may enjoy the playground, craft activities at the park entrance and magic by Mr. Illusion.

To improve accessibility, Fairfield Library Director Rebecca Johnson seeks one or two adult volunteers with golf carts who are willing to transport attendees with compromised mobility.

All storybook stations will be located adjacent to the road on the south side of the park. With safety as the goal, parks & rec will block the park’s inner road to all other vehicles during the event.

This year’s theme is “A Fall Party in the Woods at Little Red Riding Hood’s House.” Guests who complete the tour will arrive at Little Red Riding Hood’s house at Shelter #4 where they will enjoy holiday lighting, live music by Tim Britton and friends and goody bags for the first 100 children who finish.

Goody bags will include meringue ghosts donated by Bountiful Bakery and other healthy treats. For questions about the event, call 641-472-6551 Ext. 114 to speak with Mickunas, or email him at alecsm@fairfield.lib.ia.us.