The annual Family Day, sponsored by the Butler County Cooperative Extension System,

the Butler County School System and Head Start, is set for May 6 at the Butler County Fairgrounds, and organizers are hoping to make the day fun for children of all ages and their families.

Extension Coordinator Linda Luman said the annual event is designed to celebrate the importance of the family and to strengthen family relationships in Butler County.

"Families are generally not as close as they once were," Luman said. "And this event stresses the importance of spending time together as a family. It is a way for parents and their children to come together in a fun environment and enjoy themselves."

Donations for the event have been provided by a number of churches, civic and service organizations, local businesses and individuals, and Luman said without the support of these donors the event would not be possible.

"We have had so much generous support from the businesses and people in the area," Luman said. "There is no way we could stage this event without the help of the organizations and individuals who help out through donations and volunteer service."

She said the event will feature an afternoon of entertainment, games and activities that parents and their children can enjoy together.

Most of the activities, Luman said, are aimed toward children between the ages of toddler through the sixth grade. Among the planned activities are relay races, pitching games, fishpond, miniature golf, horseshoes, hoops practice, face painting, hat making and the plant walk. For younger children there will be a train ride, bubble blowing, pick up ducks and bowling.

Luman said there will also be a "moonwalk" and "whale obstacle course" which are inflatable rides.

Luman said all children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, but there will be a variety of entertainment for the entire family to enjoy. Admission is free, all activities are free and snacks and drinks will be provided free of charges.

Luman said there will also be booths on-site with take home information for parents and a screening for high blood pressure and sickle cell disease. The event kicks off at 3 p.m. and the entire community is invited to attend. To volunteer for the event or for more information, contact Linda Luman at the Butler County Cooperative Extension System at 382-5111.