Families from across Alachua County are invited to celebrate childhood while connecting with local organizations during the annual “Celebrate the Child” event on Tuesday, July 21.
The free community celebration will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Jr. Multipurpose Center (1028 NE 14th St., Gainesville), according to a press release.
Hosted by Partnership for Strong Families in collaboration with the Alachua County Child Abuse Prevention Task Force, the Gainesville Community Reinvestment Area, the Children’s Trust of Alachua County and the School Board of Alachua County, the event combines family-friendly entertainment with access to valuable community resources.
This year’s celebration marks the return of the event to East Gainesville after several years.
“We are so excited to bring this event back to our neighbors in East Gainesville after several years,” said Pebbles Edelman, chief of Family and Community Wellbeing, in the press release. “We look forward to connecting families with community resources in a fun and welcoming community atmosphere.”
More than 40 local organizations will participate, offering information and services designed to support parents, caregivers and children. Developmental screenings will also be available through Help Me Grow Alachua.
Families can enjoy performances by youth circus entertainers, carnival-style games, balloon animals, ring toss and other activities. Complimentary pizza and snow cones will be available for the first 500 attendees.
The “Celebrate the Child” event has been held in Gainesville for more than 20 years. The annual event provides an opportunity for families to learn about programs and services that promote the health, safety and well-being of children while enjoying a day of free entertainment.