Front Street in Ballston Spa was alive with laughter and sounds of delight on Sunday, August 21st. Ballston Spa’s Family Fun Day made a triumphant return to the village after being dormant for years. Lead by Mark Blech and Gina Marozzi, the Village Events Committee and countless other volunteers worked endlessly for weeks to pull of this feat. The most important part of the day was that the event was FREE to the community. The committee didn’t want a single child to miss out on this fun because of their family’s economic status.
The event included 10 bouncy houses that extended the length of Front Street as well as many different free carnival games — children could earn tickets at every game station and turn it in at the prize tent which was filled with back to school supplies and other fun trinkets. A highlight of the day was the Car Wash at the end of Front Street, where kids could ride small cars through the Ballston Spa Fire Department’s misters – a welcome relief on a warm day.
Community Emergency Corps and Stewarts provided free water and beverages throughout the day, and the Ballston Spa Lion’s Club provided affordable lunch food at Old Iron Spring.
An important part of the inclusiveness of Family Fun Day this year was from 10am-12pm geared towards kids with sensory sensitivities – these children were invited to come before the big crowds and participate in every activity at their own pace.
The amazing day was capped off with The Refrigerators playing a concert at Old Iron Spring from 6-8pm.
One theme we’ve heard this week from those who participated in Family Fun Day was the feeling of community. People from all walks of life came together to make this amazing event happen. We can’t wait for it to return next year!
Many thanks to the sponsors who donated money and resources to make the day happen:
Corporate donors: Greenwich Ford, Curtis Lumber
Major donors: BSBPA, Mary Beth Walsh, Jim Tedisco, NY Army National Guard, Mangino Chevrolet, Mohican Hills Apartment, Community Emergency Corps, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Ballston Spa Rotary, Ballston Spa Lions Club, Liz Joy, Ballston Spa Fire Department, Ballston Spa Police, Dave and Donna Dardaris, Former Mayor John Romano, Stewarts Shops, Obrien’s Pharmacy, Mr. and Mrs. Travor, Admar Albany, Route 50 Diner, Mandy Rider and family
Donors: Rebuilding Together, Trustco Bank, Stanko and Sons Heating and Cooling, J and R Fuels, Armer Funeral Home, Burlingame Orthodontics, Pete and Donna Martin, Boho Chic Boutique,
Mr. and Mrs. Phillips, Mr. and Mrs. Nemeth, Cusato’s Pizzeria and Deli, Henry’s Irish Pub, Brickyard Tavern and Grill