Joy, Sunshine, and a Brand-New Bike
Families flocked to Howarth Park on a beautiful, blue-sky Sunday to celebrate Child in the Wild, an annual community event that celebrates the Southeast Greenway.
The June 1st celebration brought together nature, music, cultural performances, and joyful families for an afternoon of fun and discovery for all. Hundreds of people attended this year, enjoying perfect weather, connection to our parks, and a vibrant lineup of performances and activities.
By 12:45 p.m., the Gazebo was buzzing with energy as kids lined up for face painting, coloring, and the always-popular spinning prize wheel. Dozens of families learned about the Southeast Greenway as a future Santa Rosa park. Families chatted with Campaign volunteers and marked their neighborhoods on the giant community map—a fan favorite. People are always amazed by this unique opportunity to create a beautiful new park in our community.
This year’s performers brought color, rhythm, and cultural richness to the afternoon, and they included Sonoma County Pomo Dancers, ZunZun, Grupo Folklórico Quetzalén, Redwood Empire Chinese Association Lion and Dragon Dancers, Jeffrey Bearheart & The Wild Ones, plus Danza Xantotl. Local community programs provided interactive activities for kids at their booths.
Trek Bikes of Santa Rosa generously supplied a beautiful red bike, which kids could enter a drawing to win. Trek store manager Matthew Woerner was all smiles as he helped 6-year-old Yerik pick out and size his amazing new ride—no training wheels needed. His delighted parents expressed heartfelt thanks for the big prize.
If you missed this year’s event, come participate next spring. We thank our many Campaign supporters and volunteers who made this event a big success.
Photos courtesy of Chad Sibilia