WAYNESBORO — The 34th annual Youth Festival is on Sunday, May 19 from 1 to 5 p.m. at Pine Hill Recreation Area in Waynesboro, Pa. Presented by Buttonwood Nature Center, home of The Institute, the event is free and open to the public; donations appreciated.
An outdoor event geared for kids of all ages, Youth Fest features a variety of activities, demonstrations, exhibits, and entertainment throughout the day, plus a professional guest performer.
“Kids will enjoy interactive experiences that are fun and educational,” said Jessica Watson, Buttonwood’s assistant director. “It’s important for kids to get outside for healthy activities and fun, and Youth Fest is geared toward outdoors play.”
The featured entertainer from 2 to 3 p.m. is Mark DeRose, an artist, songwriter and musician. DeRose’s music has rhythms of rock, blues, and Americana, and lyrics that are accessible for children. He plays guitar, gets kids dancing and involved with percussion.
At 4 p.m., Waynesboro Children’s Theater Troupe will perform a special summer musical presentation.
A Buttonwood staff member will lead a StoryWalk® and craft. Other activities include a performance by Waynesboro Children’s Theatre Troupe, and stations with Blue Ridge Summit Library, Eyler’s Pelts and Critters, author Sue James, The Sagebrush Shack, Waynesboro Area YMCA, and Alexander Hamilton Memorial Library. Face Painting by Elizabeth is from 3 to 5 p.m.
The Sunset Slush food truck will be on site, selling Italian ice.
“This year, we are setting up an ‘Earth Celebration Rain Table’ and will auction off hand-painted bird houses and other raffle items,” Watson said.
Children must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, visit www.buttonwoodnaturecenter.org, or contact Buttonwood at 717-762-0373 or via email: jessica@buttonwoodnaturecenter.org.
Youth Festival is underwritten in part by lead sponsor, Patriot Federal Credit Union, and by contributions to the Today’s Horizon Fund by The Nora Roberts Foundation; Marge Kiersz; and The Carolyn Terry Eddy Family: Carolyn, with daughters Connie Fleagle & Kim Larkin. Facility support courtesy of Washington Township.
Rain location is Waynesboro Area Middle School.
