6th Annual Kids Appreciation Day scheduled for Saturday,
May 17, from 2‑4 p.m. in Holly Springs ’ Womble Park

HOLLY SPRINGS - It is early spring and as the trees burst into bloom, Holly Spring ’s Kiwanis members burst into activity.  Time to prepare for the 6th Annual Kids Appreciation Day scheduled for Saturday, May 17, from 2‑4 p.m. in Holly Springs ’ Womble Park .

“The kids and our members really look forward to Kids Appreciation Day each year, not sure how the parents feel though,” said smiling Jimmy Cobb the club’s president.  “But they bring the kids every year.  It is great family event that brings us all together to enjoy and help kids.” 

At KA Day, as it is called by the locals, all children get Snow Balls, a slice of NY pizza, a Pepsi Cola soft drink, cotton candy, popcorn, a raffle ticket, and goodie bags filed with items donated by local businesses and it is all free.  Those wanting additional tickets and adults have to pay a nominal cost for the same items. 

The highlight of KA Day’s program is the recognition of local kids nominated for “Terrific Kids” Awards by their schoolteachers.  Mayor Dick Sears and Kiwanis President Cobb give out the awards to local youths with a noisy background of cheering friends and family.  Following the program there is a raffle call for the numerous gifts donated by local businesses.

Just before the program starts, everyone stakes out spots to sit on lawn chairs or on the ground in front of the stage.  Many sit under the umbrellas supplied by the Town of Holly Springs Parks and Recreation Department.  During the program the Holly Springs School of Dance perform for the crowds.  In addition, this year there will be a performance by the NC Theatre and kids from the Primrose School at West Lake .  In the past, there has also been a local police dog demonstration. 

Kids enjoy inflatable rides donated by F&N Entertainment, face painting, and Pete the Pirate—a magician and balloon person—who knights kids and their parents with balloons designed as swords.  There are other characters such as a local dentist dressed up as a big toothbrush handing out, you guessed it—toothbrushes.

There are also numerous booths set up by local business that offer activities and freebies to the children and their families.  The local fire and police departments are there too.  Kids can climb unto the fire engine, unless, of course, there is a fire somewhere.

“We look at it as a celebration of end of school year for the kids,” says Sears.  “It gives everyone a sense of community and we get some donations for youth activities in the Town.” 

 Last year’s event drew over 2,000 people including kids and their families, vendors, volunteers, and performers.  The Kiwanians expect an even larger crowd this year.

“It was encouraging to see the tremendous out pouring of support from the community.” said Cobb. 

Middle Creek and Holly Springs high schools’ Kiwanis Key Club members manage the various booths such as face painting, drinks, cotton candy, and popcorn.  The karaoke DJ that plays on the band stage draws many youngsters and even the Mayor on stage to dance. 

 Over 40 local and statewide businesses including event vendors, the Holly Springs Parks and Recreation, Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce and local schools supported KA Day in prior years. 

 Visit www.InsideHollySprings.com a sponsor of KA Day to learn more about events happening in Holly Springs .