Summer Splash'sduck race fits the bill
The Vernon Hills Park District's annual Summer Splash will be held on Friday, Aug. 7, at the Family Aquatic Center. Community Relations Coordinator Marty Walsh tells us what you need to know.
Q. What makes this such a fabulous event?
A. The Summer Splash event will again feature a duck race, sending a bunch of rubber ducks down a water slide and onto our 700-foot lazy river to the finish line. Ducks cost $1 each, and winners receive gift cards ranging from $20-$100.
Q. How long has this event been in existence? How has it changed, and what is new this year?
A. The event has been around for ten years. We try to add one new activity or element each year. In 2008, we added a giant inflatable spaceship for the kids and also added temporary tattoos and face paint to the carnival games. This year, the first 500 people will receive complimentary Hawaiian leis.
Q. What's the highlight of the event?
A. A-Z Entertainment provides a complimentary DJ and dancers, and they really keep the kids engaged. And of course, the duck race is always a highlight for the residents. Most importantly though, the Summer Splash is a way to spend a Friday night with the family, see some old neighbors and even meet some new friends.
Q. What kind of activities will appeal to kids and families?
A. Pool races, carnival games, kids bounce house and the duck race.
Q. What about adults? What does the event offer them?
A. Great BBQ and music, family fun and the chance to win a $100 gift card in the duck race.
Q. What kinds of food and beverages will be for sale?
A. Hamburgers, hot dogs, beverages and several other delicious items.
Q. Tell us about the volunteers and organizers who pull this together.
A. The event couldn't exist without the help of our full-time staff who volunteer their time, the staff at the Family Aquatic Center and our summer camp staff. They man all the booths (duck purchases, distribute water to everyone to stay hydrated, pick up garbage as they find it, greet everyone and help with carnival games.). Our Recreation Supervisor Kelly Cushion and Aquatics Director Jason Bullman work together to create such a memorable event for everyone.
<p class="factboxheadblack">If you go</p> <p class="News"><b>What:</b> Vernon Hills Park District's annual Summer Splash</p> <p class="News"><b>When:</b> 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7</p> <p class="News"><b>Where:</b> Family Aquatic Center, 635 Aspen Drive in Vernon Hills</p> <p class="News"><b>Cost:</b> The event is open to Vernon Hills residents only; proof of residency is required. Tickets are $1 tickets until the day of event and $5 on Friday, Aug. 7. Proceeds go to the park district and the Lions Club for food and beverage sales. </p> <p class="News"><b>More info: </b>(847) 996-6800 or <a href="http://vhparkdistrict.org" target="new">vhparkdistrict.org</a></p>