MEDICINE HAT, AB – From going to the movies, to heading out for dinner, the cost of going out can be overwhelming for the average family.
To help ease the financial burden on some of those parents, one local woman has decided to throw an event that won’t break the bank.
Speaking from experience, single mother of three, Amber Hamilton, says it’s always been tough to find affordable events in the City that are family friendly.
“Lots of the events are geared more towards the parents and the adults, instead of the kids and we have really fun things here, but it doesn’t happen on a regular basis,” said Hamilton.”It’s just not as focused for kids.”
Which is what led her to organize the first ever ‘Small Town Kids Fest’, taking place May 3rd and 4th at the Cypress Centre.
“I’m trying to make it a trade-show for the whole family with an entire kids festival surrounding it. So, we want to have as many things as possible for the kids, but also something for the parents to be able to do.”
For just $10, your child will receive a wristband…their ticket to fun, which includes face-painting, magic and a chance to explore Canada’s largest inflatable playground.
“I think that it’s affordable enough that basically anyone with any sort of income can come, but it’s exciting enough for people with tons in the bank to come and have fun too.”
Mother of four, Stephanie Muhr, will also be at this weekends festival.
Muhr and her 10-year-old Daughter Veda will be selling hand-made products, as one of the 65-vendors.
Muhr says it wasn’t too long ago when you had to leave the City to find family-friendly entertainment like this.
“You either have to travel, which is expensive or if there’s things within the community, things just cost a lot. It’s not that it can be avoided lots of the time, but to do a lot of those activities, it gets quite expensive.”
Which is why she hopes Hamilton will find success.
“When something like this is held and it has a really good turnout and response, they can do it again next year. When they don’t have support from the community, it won’t come back.”
Hamilton says she would love to host this on an annual basis, but only if they see the proper support.
“We’ll see how many come through the days. We’re expecting quite a few and we’re hoping it’ll be a big hit.”
The festival takes place on May 3rd from 3 p.m. – 8 p.m. and May 4th from 10 a.m. – 6:00 p.m..
One adult is free with the purchase of a kids pass. Additional adults will be charged $2.
Children under 3 are free.
