by Staff writer
Carroll Community College is gearing up for its 3rd annual Family Fun Fest on Saturday, April 26th from 10 am to 2 pm at its Westminster campus. The event is completely free and open to the public, with a rain date set for Saturday, May 3rd. This outdoor celebration is packed with activities and entertainment for the whole family.
The event will offer a little bit of everything—from inflatable games and drone simulations to face painting, tie-dyeing, rock painting, and even a scavenger hunt. Kids can also enjoy sunflower seed planting, chalk art, and creative loose parts play that encourages imaginative thinking. There’s no shortage of hands-on fun here.
One of the highlights is a chance to get up close with emergency vehicles. Families can check out the Maryland State Police Helicopter, watch a K9 demonstration, and explore the Sheriff’s Mobile Command Bus and DUI Truck. A local fire truck will also be on-site, staffed with Carroll County firefighters who will teach kids about fire safety and how the emergency vehicles operate.
In partnership with Penguin Random House and the Carroll County Public Library, the College will host Story Times in its outdoor Amphitheater. Ensuring children continue to have a love for reading, Penguin Random House is also giving away free books to take home for families. Special guests like Cat in the Hat and Llama Llama from the beloved children’s books will be there for meet-and-greets. Families can enjoy a stroll along the College’s Story Book Trail, which will feature The Berenstain Bears on the Moon.
The event isn’t just about fun—it’s also helping a good cause. Proceeds from a raffle and support from community sponsors will go toward scholarships for Carroll’s Summer Kids@Carroll and Teen College@Carroll programs. Money raised from affordable concessions will benefit the Carroll Food Locker, which helps fight food insecurity in the local community.
“Thanks to all of our sponsors, staff and volunteers, who will not only make the event succeed, but also provide needed funds to support our community programs for children,” said Wantz, one of the event organizers.
Whether you’re coming for the activities, the food, the stories, or the helicopters, Family Fun Fest is a great way to enjoy a Saturday with the family—and it supports some awesome programs for local kids at the same time. Don’t forget to mark your calendar for April 26th, and fingers crossed for sunshine!
