Train rides, games, music and fun are some of the things families can expect at this Shawnee County Parks and Recreation event.
Founders Fest, hosted by the Shawnee County Parks and Recreation Department, features entertainment, free activities and educational opportunities for all ages. It takes place on Saturday, August 31st from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sean Zears, marketing and communications director for Shawnee County Parks and Rec, said Founders Fest is an event that took place many years ago, but they are excited to bring it back.
“That wasn’t the way we do it,” Zears said. “So we hope to expand and repeat it every year. And most importantly, it’s a great opportunity for us to showcase Gage Park itself.”
What will be part of the Founders Fest?
The Founders Fest includes:
- Free train rides to and from the zoo. All rides are free. The train makes two stops in the park on each circuit, one at the depot and one at the carousel, allowing passengers to hop on and off at any location.
- Carousel rides, free of charge.
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- Shawnee County’s Rec and Roll Van with games and music from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Interactive exhibits with the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center’s mobile museum. The mobile museum is expected to be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the history of Gage Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during a program led by Shawnee County Commissioner Bill Riphahn and SCPR Recreation Director Devin Cooper.
Keishera Lately is a business reporter for the Topeka Capital-Journal. Reach her at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter at @Lately_KT.
