Kidtoberfest Continues Tradition Of Fun And Information

Face-painting was a popular activity at Saturday’s Kidtoberfest

Oskaloosa, Iowa – The inflatables were in place, tables were set, and the decorations helped make the mood more festive. The only thing that was needed was a crowd and lots of children’s smiling faces.

Saturday didn’t disappoint those smiling faces. Between the bounce house, the giant slide, popcorn, sno-cones, the insect petting zoo and many more activities awaited.

The Mahaska County ISU Extension Office handles the planning of Kidtoberfest that took place at Penn Central Mall from 10am to 3pm.

Brian Dunn, Regional Extension Education Director (Region 14) for Mahaska County, said that the days turnout was pretty good and he believes that the amount of visitors will be similar to that of previous years, around 400 children and their families.

The purpose of Kidtoberfest is to help connect families and agencies that serve the needs of children and their families. That is accomplished by vendors like daycare centers and preschools being able rent space, thus giving visitors access to many different options all in one place.

The inflatables, insect zoo and other fun events are in place to help draw the families and children to Penn Central Mall and the vendors. This year, 40 vendors took part, up from last year’s 38.

Kids had fun displays from the Science Center of Iowa and the Insect Zoo from Iowa State University. Local businesses sponsor the event, helping to make the day possible.

If you or your business would like to take part in next years Kidtoberfest, give the local ISU Extension office a call for more information.