A fun filled afternoon of activities, food and even some old-time baseball highlighted the 2015 Spring Out to Sunset Festival at Sunset Hill Farm County Park in Valparaiso. Many organizations and local businesses teamed up to provide a great way for community members to welcome in the warm weather and spend time at the beautiful park.
A number of organizations took part in the festival, including: The Northern Indiana Historic Power Association, Valpo Parks Foundation, Bounce N Around, Laser Ball, great food vendors, and the Deep River Grinders.
Click here to see all the photos from the Spring Out to Sunset Festival!
“It is great to see all the partners that help us put this on, “ said Walter Lenckos, Superintendent of Porter County Parks and Recreation. “It’s nice to see everyone having fun and enjoying being part of the festival.”
Throughout the Park, many activities were happening. From Inflatables to Archery, Kite Flying, Pony Rides, Vintage Baseball, Yoga and a Home-brew competition, there were tons of things to do for both children and adults.
“All day long, there are little mini versions of wellness and camp activities that are being offered for people to try, experience, and decided if they would like to sign up for,” explained Lenckos.
One of the newer features of the festival was the vintage baseball game. After having such a fun time with the game last year, The Sunset Hill Coronels became an official team with the Vintage Baseball Associations and played the Deep River Grinders again this year.
The game brought back old traditions in baseball and rules that if broken, could result in a fine. Some of the rules included always acting like a gentleman, no spitting, and no cursing. Dave “THE Tackler,” Stutler who is the hurler (pitcher) for the Deep River Grinders, spoke about how much fun the games are.
“Parks are great! When you have four generations of people watching our ball games at the park, it is just a great feeling,” said Stutler.
The day was a successful way to welcome in the warm weather and remind the community of the great activities that the parks have to offer.
“This events gives families a really affordable way to get outside and get involved with our Parks. Families can enjoy getting outside, being active and having fun,” said Dana Yake, Communications Director for Porter County Parks.
Serving as a launch for all the Parks Spring/Summer activity programs, the Spring Out to Sunset Festival began what will be an eventful and fun season.