SARATOGA SPRINGS — New, and entirely free, the Love Saratoga event happening this weekend will have something for everyone to enjoy.
“It’s going to be a lot of fun,” said New Life Fellowship Church Associate Pastor Cory Prothero.
The event begins at 11 a.m. and will have a variety of both fun and practical activities. Children of all ages will cherish the chance to pet, feed and even hold the cute bunnies, silly goats and cuddly sheep in a petting zoo brought in by Dream Ponies and Zoo. There will also be two horses on hand for unforgettable free pony rides.
Families will be greeted by the sounds of laughter and the sight of smiles as kids ages 10 years and younger jump around on a big 15’ by 20’ inflatable castle set up inside.
Chow down on free food including popcorn, snacks and a full taco bar while listening to a lineup of live musicians including a cover band playing hits from the ‘80s and ‘90s, an acoustic band, and an a cappella men’s vocal group.
Easter Egg hunts will commence at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. A total of 1,000 eggs will be scattered either inside or across the 8-acre field for the children to scavenge. Gift coins for free meals at the Texas Roadhouse in Queensbury will also be given out.
The fun isn’t just for the young ones at this event, however. Kids and adults alike will have a chance to get spruced up for spring with free haircuts by three stylists including Michelle Grasso from Michelle’s Hair Studio.
A crew of a dozen volunteers will also be ready with shop-vacs to clean out your car, for free. Have a chance to meet with Saratoga County Public Health, who will be offering health screenings. The Saratoga Springs Fire Department and the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Department will also be there.
For the past month, volunteers have been collecting food donations in a door-to-door appeal and from local grocery stores including Hannaford and Walmart, for the 50 to 100 baskets that will be distributed.
“The enthusiasm has been through the roof,” said Prothero.
Area restaurants and food producers have also made hundreds of dollars in gift certificate and food donations for a “Taste of Saratoga” raffle. The raffle is the only money that is being collected at this event, and the proceeds are to benefit Wellspring, which provides support services for those experiencing domestic violence.
Prothero, who spent time working in restaurants before joining the church, said that his approach to organizing this event has been similar to working in any service industry that strives to make everyone feel welcome.
“The whole event is very community based. It’s not a private social club, it’s a very family-friendly event,” he said.
Love Saratoga is open to the public, rain or shine, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Saturday, April 1st, at New Life Fellowship Church, 51 Old Gick Road, Saratoga Springs.
