Newton Fest: Keeping the kids entertained is easy

Newton Fest is jam-packed with family-friend activities, which is no big surprise. The celebration of all things Newton isn’t just exclusive to adults or kids-at-heart — it’s for everyone! So parents shouldn’t have any problem wearing out their kids with the bevy of fun things at Maytag Park and beyond.

During the pre-Newton Fest on June 8, kids (and adults!) are welcome to join DMACC at Maytag Park for Chalk the Walk. Bring out your inner artist to take part in a free chalk art competition. Chalk will be provided, so all you have to worry about is figuring out what to illustrate. Prizes will be given out, too!

Capitol II Theatre is welcoming families into a world of pure imagination with a free community movie showing of “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.” That’s the original movie in case you all were wondering. The show begins 10:30 a.m. June 9 and 10 at the Capitol II. Doors open 45 minutes before showtime.

By the time Saturday arrives, kids should be worn out from all the activities. One of the newest this year is the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Story & Spin Art Bikes from noon to 2 p.m. June 10 at Maytag Park. Guests can use the spin art machine attached to a bike and leave with a masterpiece.

Safety Fest returns at the same time. Staff from the Newton Fire Department and Newton Police Department will be parked at the park with the firetruck, ambulance, police vehicles and more. Meet-and-great your neighborhood officers and firefighters, and even try out the fire hose!

The fun doesn’t have to stay in the Fest Fun Zone, but there is certainly plenty of fun things to do in the Fun Zone. Families can enjoy several different inflatables to choose from, as well as laser tag from noon to 4 p.m. June 10 at Maytag Park. Again, all of these activities are free of charge.

Do you believe in magic? Well the Magic and Illusions of Eric Michaels will certainly make you a believer. Michaels returns for yet another fun magic show from 1 to 2 p.m. June 10 at the Maytag Bowl. The magic show features plenty of comedy, audience participation and live animals to enjoy.