Kidz Fest brings family fun to Keene High School

Families looking for a way to shake off the late-winter blues will have a brand-new event to look forward to this month. The Keene Sentinel and Parent Express will host the first annual Kidz Fest, a fun-filled, family-friendly celebration designed especially for kids, on Saturday, March 27, from noon to 4 p.m. at Keene High School.Inspired by the success of last year's Autumn Fest, organizers wanted to create another community event — this time with a special focus on children and families. Kidz Fest is designed to give kids a place to explore new interests, discover creative activities and simply enjoy the carefree imagination that comes with being a kid.The afternoon will feature a lively mix of entertainment and hands-on activities. Children can jump into games, test their skills at laser tag, get creative at arts and crafts stations, or transform into their favorite characters with face painting. With activities happening throughout the afternoon, there will be something for kids of all ages to enjoy.Classic games will also be part of the fun. Families can challenge each other to friendly competitions with games like pinball bowling, Connect 4, Jenga and mini golf. These easygoing activities are perfect for kids and parents to play together and create a few laughs along the way.One highlight of the event will be the popular Touch-a-Truck experience, presented by the Keene Fire Department. Kids will have the chance to get up close to fire trucks, explore the vehicles and meet the firefighters who help keep the community safe. For many young attendees, it's sure to be one of the most exciting stops of the day.Entertainment will take place throughout the afternoon as well. From 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., Elements MMA of Keene, will present martial arts demonstrations that showcase athleticism, focus and discipline.At 1:30 p.m., the stage will be taken over by The Magic of Jason Purdy Illusionist, who will perform a magic show filled with surprises and audience participation that the whole family can enjoy.Fans of local summer baseball will also have a chance to meet a familiar face. Ribby, the mascot from the Keene SwampBats, will be visiting Kidz Fest from 2 to 3:30 p.m., posing for photos and greeting young fans.Creative kids won't want to miss the MoCo Arts workshop at 2:30 p.m. Participants can pre-register online at keenesentinel.com/kidz-fest to take part in this interactive arts experience.Another creative highlight will be hosted by Hannah Banana Creates, who will bring one of her popular inclusive art buffet stations to the festival. At this station, children can design their own custom "art monster." Using a laser-cut blank monster body and a wide variety of colorful accents, kids can mix and match pieces to bring their unique creature to life.In addition to activities and entertainment, Kidz Fest will feature a variety of local vendors and organizations offering products, information and family-focused resources. The current list of vendors includes KKS 3D Creations, Hugs and Squishes, face painting, Fairy Hair by On Main Salon, Beeze Tees, Elements MMA, Frisky Cow Gelato, the Keene Sentinel, the Keene YMCA, Athens Pizza and Hannah Banana Creates.Admission to the event is affordable for families. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children, while kids under 2 years old can attend for free.Local businesses and organizations interested in joining the fun still have a small window to sign up as vendors. The deadline to register is Friday, March 27. Those interested can contact event coordinator Allison Gibbons at agibbons@keenesentinel.com for more information.Keene High School is located at 43 Arch St., in Keene. For more information about Kidz Fest visit, keenesentinel.com/kidz-fest.