May 2 was a fun day for all in Escalon, as the city’s Chamber of Commerce hosted a variety of festivities for Sunday in the Park, the first time in more than a year the event has been staged.
Timed to coincide with the approaching Mother’s Day observance, there were several projects for local youngsters to enjoy while making gifts for the special day.
Potholders could be colored, plants could be planted, picture frames could be painted … all were designed to take home and give as gifts.
“We’re so happy,” said mom Emma Van Riper, attending the May 2 fun day with sons Zach, 4, and Caleb, 2. They were making the rounds of the various projects and just enjoying being out in the sunshine and fresh air. They didn’t even mind the brisk winds, preferring a day outside to another indoors.
The festivities began with a special Mommy and Me yoga put on by EscalonFit, then there were the projects in the park. Music was played, prompting many youngsters to jump on the Main Street Park stage for some impromptu dancing, while volunteers spread out around the park were there to assist with the different craft projects.
Also, members of the Escalon Historical Society were on hand to provide tours of and information about the historic caboose in the park for those attendees that wanted to learn more about it.
Chamber of Commerce community liaison Anthony Diaz said organizers were pleased with the Sunday festivities.
“It has been a good turnout and it is good for the kids to get out and do something,” Diaz said.
Making the short drive from Riverbank to attend, Maisie Snyder, 6, was there with grandma Lee Snyder. Maisie, who attends the local Country Kids Child Development Center and is in kindergarten at Dent Elementary in Escalon, was happy to add bright colors to a picture frame project and was enjoying the opportunity to be artistic.
Elsewhere, mom Christine Griffin said her children were thoroughly enjoying the different projects and both were focused on creating colorful potholders. Adeline, 8, and Griffin, 4, were all smiles as they chose the markers and worked on their crafts.
“They are very artistic, they love crafts,” said Christine. “This gives them a chance to make something for Mother’s Day.”
Chuckling, their mom said she would make sure to “be surprised” when she has the opportunity to open the gifts on her special day.
Chamber officials said they were happy to be able to host the outdoor event, which was staged under an ‘open air market’ designation; and they anticipate getting back into a regular routine of hosting the Sunday in the Park events during the coming months.
