Kidzfest comes to Washington this week

WASHINGTON - Washington County Hospital and Clinics’ annual “Kidzfest” is planned in central park on Friday from 4:30-7:30 p.m., centered on a world exploration theme, according to organizers.

WCHC Marketing Director Greta Clemons said attendees would pick up “passports” instead of the traditional activity bingo cards, upon their arrival. They can then enjoy a variety of interactive activities originating from four different continents, including tae-kwon-do, kolap and trundling.

“We aren’t having any on-stage entertainment or activities,” she said. “We did want to use the continents to our advantage and do more activities to get kids involved, instead of just sitting and watching something.”

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Aside from the “Tiny Travelers” theme, organizers said this year’s Kidzfest would feature all the same popular attractions, including face painting, pony rides, 27 booths run by local businesses, and a variety of food options.

WCHC will also run a handful of booths representing its own departments at the event, including Emergency Room and imaging staff among others. Clemons said the annual event offered young community members a chance to meet providers in a less scary environment than the hospital can be when they’re injured.

“We love to get our staff and different departments out there to show the kids what’s happening at the hospital,” she said. “And hopefully make it not seem like a scary place, and that everyone is nice ... and also teach them a little bit about what we do.”

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com