Holland Youth Council to host ‘Kids to Park Day’ at Kollen Park

HOLLAND — The Holland Youth Advisory Council is inviting local families to trade screen time for sunshine this weekend.

As part of the 16th annual National Kids to Park Day, HYAC will host a free community event 10 a.m.-noon on Saturday, May 16, at Kollen Park.

The festivities will be centered at the picnic shelter near the playground, offering a morning of organized outdoor play designed to connect the city’s youngest residents with their local green spaces.

This year’s event features a high-profile guest: celebrated local artist Joel Schoon-Tanis. Known for his vibrant style that blends realism with whimsical, child-like imagery, Schoon-Tanis will be on-site to lead interactive painting sessions with the children.

In addition to the art station, HYAC student members will facilitate a variety of activities, including nature scavenger hunts, sidewalk chalk art and temporary tattoo stations and open frisbee games and playground interaction.

Organized nationally by the National Park Trust, Kids to Park Day is a grassroots movement to encourage families to discover local, state and national parks. The Holland event is free of charge and specifically tailored for children up to 12 years old.

The Holland Youth Advisory Council, established in 2003, consists of high school students from four area schools appointed by the city council. The group serves a dual purpose: providing city leaders with a youth perspective on municipal government and developing the next generation of local leadership.

"This national day of outdoor play encourages kids and families to connect with their local parks through events that promote discovery and exploration in the great outdoors," the organization stated.

For more information regarding HYAC and upcoming youth initiatives, visit the City of Holland Recreation Committee's website.

— Submitted by the Holland Youth Advisory Council. To submit a news tip, email newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.