This is the 10th year that downtown Joliet will be transformed into a kids’ fun zone for KidzFest.
The Joliet City Center Partnership and Lewis University in Romeoville are at the helm of the annual event, which brings families to Chicago Street to experience kid-friendly fun featuring more than 35 vendors.
Tom Mahalik, vice president of Joliet City Center marketing, said the location is ideal for Lewis because it's able to set up its kids’ "campus" in the Will County State’s Attorney’s Office parking lot.
"They have like 20 different departments over there and every department has some different kid activity," Mahalik said. "You can actually experience the campus by walking through this area."
Kathrynne M. Skonicki, Lewis' director of media relations, said the campus is a huge hit every year. One of the most-popular attractions is the replica plane, which is 15 feet long.
"It’s one of the highlights of our mini-campus every year," Skonicki said.
Because Lewis has a huge aviation program, it is an important aspect of the school.
In addition to being fun for the kids, Skonicki said KidzFest has something for the parents, too. Adults have the opportunity to participate in health screenings, including blood sugar testing.
"The kids are having a good time but also the parents can get some health stuff taken care of at the same time," she said.
Another big draw is expected to be an appearance by Aedin Mincks, star of the Disney Channel program A.N.T. Farm. He'll be meet guests and signing autographs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Joliet Public Library. The library is also holding a book sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Other activities will included face painting, crafts, games and live performers.
For more information, go to jolietdowntown.com or call 815-774-6066.
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