A pen full of goats may be an unusual sight in the middle of downtown Jamestown, but for hundreds of area children, it was a welcome one Friday.
The Downtown Jamestown Development Corporation hosted its annual Farmers Market Community Day, shutting down part of Third Street. Families, as well as several area day care providers, took the opportunity to enjoy the warm weather and activities.
"It gets a little bit bigger every year. We try to make it bigger and healthier. We don't give away any pop or hot dogs anymore," said Lee Harkness, executive director of the DJDC.
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A number of children participated in a 1K run during the Community Day. Medals were awarded for top finishers.
P-J photos by Liz Skoczylas
This year, families had the opportunity to sample a variety of healthy options. Peaches were offered, as well as GoGurt and salsa, which was made from produce out of the farmers market.
"We purchase all the food from the farmers market," Harkness said. "It's an event where we want people to become familiar with agriculture. It's important in this county."
Aside from the healthy food options, Community Day offered several forms of entertainment. J.J. Jingles, a local clown, did face painting and balloon animals. Additionally, there was a petting zoo featuring goats and several smaller animals, a 1K kids run, a milking cow and agriculture display, and several other displays from area organizations.
"We do it every year, so (the organizations) have gotten a little used to it now. They all volunteer to come down here. It gives them a chance to give input to families," Harkness said.
The event provides an opportunity for area children to be a part of agriculture and explore healthy options, when they may have otherwise not had the chance.
"It's an event that brings people to the farmers market, it's an event that brings people downtown and it's an event that allows kids and families," Harkness said.
Although he jokes that his favorite part of Community Day is enjoying the food, there is more Harkness really enjoys about the event.
"My favorite thing is seeing the kids here, having a good time. And, they're really learning something while they're doing it," Harkness said.