WQIO Ohio's Super Station
Area residents are invited to come out and enjoy the fine spring weather
on Saturday, May 17, 2025, for Kids to Parks Day at the Lakes at Ariel~Foundation Park. A full day of
exciting and fun outdoor activities is planned for the whole family to mark the event.
Kids to Parks Day was created by the National Park Trust in 2000 to encourage kids and families to get
outdoors and visit their local parks, public lands and waters, promote a more active lifestyle, and broaden
everyone’s appreciation for nature and the outdoors.
“These are obviously all valuable and important goals for all the residents of Mount Vernon and Knox
County,” said Mayor Matthew Starr. “But beyond that, Kids to Parks Day gives everyone an opportunity to
enjoy a beautiful recreational area with their family and friends during a beautiful time of the year.”
The day will begin with a Fish & Game Association Youth Fishing Derby from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and then
again from 1 to 4 p.m. Fishing poles and bait will be provided, or participants can bring their own poles and bait. Knox County Cub Scout packs and Scouting America troops will be organizing a variety of Scouting activities and games from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., including inflatable archery and BB guns.
In addition, Knox County Head Start will be celebrating its 60th birthday with a celebration at Kids to Parks
Day, including a petting zoo, bounce house, and other games and activities from 1 to 4 p.m. Mayor Starr is scheduled to deliver a proclamation in honor of Head Start’s birthday.
Finally, PAK United will have a tent featuring a Mount Vernon Fire Department truck and the Police
Department’s very friendly therapy dog, Nova. Hot dogs will be provided by the Exchange Club, and park
tours will be ongoing throughout the afternoon.
So get outdoors and enjoy a fun day of kids’ activities, while visiting with many of our community’s groups and organizations, on Saturday, May 17, at the Lakes at Ariel~Foundation Park. Some activities will be held rain or shine.
