Shortly before Okotokians start ringing in the new year, the Town is hosting a celebration of its own.
The Town of Okotoks is organizing its annual Kids’ New Year’s Eve Party at the Okotoks Recreation Centre featuring a variety of opportunities for individuals and families to get active Dec. 31 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
“It’s free for the families to come out and use it and it’s a good way to end the year,” said Jacquie Hill, community programs co-ordinator.
“It’s a time for the families to bond in a different way, and to get active together and with other families.”
The day of activities begins in the morning with a parent and tot swim and family aquafit. Free swimming takes place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and again from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
“Swimming and skating is a big draw for people to come out,” Hill said.
Afternoon activities include public skating and a magic show in the concession lobby.
“The magician was super popular last year,” said Hill.
Activities in the Okotoks Recreation Centre’s Shane Homes gym will take place all day, and those in attendance can enjoy arts and crafts in the concession lobby from 10 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.
“At our craft tables, there was people at them the whole time last year,” Hill said.
Rather than having bouncy castles in the gymnasium again this year, Hill said staff will facilitate various games and activities.
“There is definitely a physical component,” she said of the annual event. “It’s good to be active as it’s very easy in the winter to be sedentary because it’s cold out. It’s activities for people to get moving.”
The Kids’ New Year’s Eve Party will end with a fireworks display from Lineham Park at 7 p.m. For more details about the party go to Okotoks.ca
