Fourth Annual KIDSfest Incorporates Family, Adventure, and Heroism

The fourth annual KIDSfest, hosted by the in Danvers, is set to take place Wednesday through Sunday this week, with themes incorporating adventure, heroism, and family. 

The program was started by Dan Milette, lead pastor, as a celebratory, community wide event that is fun for both children and parents. "It seems like the church is viewed as exclusive, and they keep to themselves," he said. "My philosophy is very different than that. The vision for KIDSfest was twofold. Initially we want to let the community know that we're here to fill a need. [Also] it's the summer, kids need something to do, look forward to. We want to be there for parents."

The series kicks off with "Adventure-fest" on Wednesday night at 6 p.m. Zip lines, obstacle courses, and ropes courses will all be set up at the church. 

On the second night, "Hero-fest" touches back to the theme of community, and they've invited local , , and to speak with the kids and talk about what it means to be a hero and show them the insides of their vehicles. 

The third night has traditionally been "Water-Fest," where they have inflatable slides and water activities. 

Before each night's themed activities the children get together in the main hall to learn songs, and build a relationship with their new friends and team leaders. 

On Sunday, the culmination of the four day series is "Family Fest," where parents and children are invited to the Sunday morning service, and the children perform the songs they've learned. Following the service is an open-to-the-public carnival, featuring bounce houses, hotdogs, and popcorn. 

Milette said since the program began it has grown consistently each year, and he expects about 60-80 children at this year's event. "It's pretty awesome," he said. 

Milette noted that the Church of the Nazarene does not necessarily have "memberships," but instead "partnerships," and you do not have to be a partner to become involved with the events. 

Check out a video from last year's KIDSfest on the Church of Nazarene's Youtube page. 

KIDSfest 2011 is held at , 181 Dayton St. and is a rain or shine event. Learn more about the program at www.danverschurch.org