It’s all fun, games on Family Day thanks to Erin Rotary Club

ERIN – The Erin Rotary Club is once again organizing a day of fun, music, food and activities for Family Day, which this year is Feb. 16.

Doors at Centre 2000 open at 10am and events wrap up at 3pm.

Chris Bailey is chair of Family Fun Day, and along with the most popular tried and true events, like family skating, a magician and games for kids, the team has added a few new ones.

Have you got a young singer in your home? A dancer? A juggler? Youngsters aged five to 12 are invited to take to the stage for a talent showcase.

“We have no idea how many may want to do it,” Bailey said in an interview.

That’s why children who want to participate are asked to pre-register.

“Then we can manage expectations,” Bailey said.

Also new is a Bollywood dance class where visitors can attempt to belly dance among other moves.

Party Safari is returning this year with its exotic animals. And there will be sensory activities and crafts for kids to enjoy.

There is a nominal cost for the indoor carnival games and the pancake breakfast but most of the events are free.

That’s in large part because local businesses and the Town of Erin have come on board as sponsors.

Donations, of course, are always welcome.

Bailey said Family Day can be a challenge for families to keep their kids happy and occupied.

“They can’t necessarily play outside if it’s too cold, and budgets are tight for many families,” Bailey said.

“Trying to find something that’s fun without costing huge money is difficult.

“Our mission is to keep it affordable,” he continued. “Families can come and have fun and spend zero dollars.”

Bailey said the Erin Rotary Club, with just 26 members, hosts two community events each year: Family Fun Day on Family Day and Summer Fest on Canada Day.

And while the club is always looking for new members, anyone interested in volunteering on Feb. 16 can do so without further obligation.

The full lineup of events and times, plus registration for the talent showcase or to volunteer, can be found at erinrotary.com/familyday.