JCC Says 'Kids' Fun Fest' Bigger and Better This Year

It's not easy to entertain children these days, but the Jewish Community Center of Central NJ has succeeded through its annual Kids' Fun Fest.

Months of planning have gone into organizing the 2nd annual fest, which will be held this Sunday. The 4-hour event certainly has no shortage of activities to choose from.

"We have everything this year," said Sandra Kenoff, the JCC's Director of Marketing and Special Events. "From huge inflatables in the gym with a DJ — our own little bounce center — to Bath Junkie coming so kids can make their own bubble baths. The Scotch Plains Police Department is coming with their K-9 unit so the kids can interact with the dogs and they'll be doing some shows. Powerhouse Studios & Entertainment will be there with all different characters — it'lls be a Mini Disney World with lots of characters walking around doing live interactive shows with the kids."

Other activities include programs from Creative Kids, Kosker Korner at the J, Games2U, Party Perfect Rentals, Mad Science, Trinitas Children's Therapy Services, Surgent's Elite Gymnastics, New Jersey Snake Man, and more.

"Last year was a huge, huge success, and we've built on that this year," Kenoff said. "We have more sponsors than we had last year and a lot of new and exciting programs and great events."

Last year was the first annual Kids' Fun Fest and thanks to admission charges and corporate sponsors, the JCC was able to raise approximately $25,000. Over 1,500 people attended in 2009. The JCC expects even more this year.

The money raised goes toward supporting the JCC's programs and services for children, but it's about more than just being a fundraiser. Kenoff said the JCC really started Kids' Fun Fest to provide area families a place to go for interactive fun.

"We want this to be something the community looks forward to each year, and that's why we've timed it in March," she said. "It's not usually great, great weather, but this is a great indoor event."

While the day is for the whole family and children of all ages, Kenoff noted that the activities are particularly engaging for kids ages 2 to 11.

Sponsors of the event include Powerhouse Studios and Entertainment, Vogel Bus Company and Family Magazine. 

Advance tickets are $25 per child. The cost at the door is $28 per child. Children under 2 and adults get in free, and there are ticket discounts for families with three or more children. 

Koneff noted that this admission covers the cost of all activities and materials.

"Everything you do here is included in the price, whether it's making tie-dye t-shirts or bubble bath," she said.

Families also have the option to become a "Family Friend" of Kids' Fun Fest 2010 for $150. That includes two admission tickets.

Lunch and snacks will be available at an additional cost.

"It's really a great family day," Kenoff said. "We do have plans to continue this event would like to see it grow."

Kids' Fun Fest 2010 will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the JCC, located at 1391 Martine Avenue in Scotch Plains.