Numerous families took advantage of Saturday’s Kids Fest at the Bradford YMCA.

Tina Martin, executive director at CARE for Children, said the event is McKean County’s largest event with free admission for children for kids 5 years old and under.

“The vision, dental, hearing and developmental screenings are vitally important in providing parents access to services if needed, and bringing parents awareness of the importance of these health/developmental areas and benchmarks,” Martin explained to The Era.

She added organizers and volunteers were pleased with the turnout despite the weather.

She said, “Weather is always a factor but the majority of organizations and volunteers were happy with the steady flow of children and family members and felt that they had time to engage them in activities and provide resources.”

Martin noted the chance to interact with a large number of children and their families is rewarding. She added a couple popular attractions at the event included the Erie Zoo attraction and music by Jim Ronan.

“The haircuts and braiding by local stylists were also very popular. Organizations worked very hard to provide fun, interactive activities with the giveaways for the kids in attendance coupled with valuable information for parents,” said Martin.

“The day would not be possible without the generosity of our sponsors and the many volunteers and organizations who work together to make a special day for local children,” she said, praising those who were involved.

When asked if there will be any changes for next year’s event, Martin said, “We would plan for the last Saturday in April to be warm and sunny.”

Kids Fest was organized by members of the McKean County Collaborative Board and hosted by the Bradford YMCA as part of National Healthy Kids Day.