Family events in Newark, OH

Jessica Pulley leads an interactive music and movement session that supports toddlers in developing rhythm and strengthening gross motor skills. It is designed for children 19 months to 3 years. No registration is required, and participation is first come, first served.

The Works marks its 30th birthday with a cheerful celebration. Attendees can bring a favorite teddy bear or other stuffed companion and enjoy classic party games, sweet treats, party hats, a make-your-own party popper activity, crafts, and additional activities. The gathering honors three decades of creativity, discovery, and fun at The Works. Included with admission and free for members.

Senior World Heritage Archaeologist Brad Lepper leads a guided walk through the Great Circle of the Newark Earthworks, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore one of the largest geometric earthworks as he shares its history, cultural significance, and lasting legacy. The tour is free, and optional donations support accessible programming at the Newark Earthworks. There is no need to register in advance. Plan to walk about 0.6 kilometers, or roughly 0.3 miles. Dress for the weather, as the tour goes ahead in any conditions.

Hosted by Heath Girls Soccer at Heath High School, this preseason girls soccer showcase features 12 programs and 12 games across a full day of play. It ranks among the largest preseason gatherings in Central Ohio. Participating teams include Heath, Bishop Ready, Northridge, Sheridan, Granville, Lancaster, Watkins Memorial, Bishop Hartley, Licking Valley, Coshocton, Buckeye Valley, and West Muskingum. Games are 40 minutes with a running clock, there is a 10 minute break between contests, and a two referee crew manages each matchup. Admission is free for all spectators. The concession stand operates all day, and a Kona Ice truck will be on site. Expect a family friendly setting with continuous soccer from morning to evening.

Christian Life Center hosts its annual back to school rally featuring a backpack giveaway for local students. Past editions have provided hundreds of supply filled backpacks, and the event returns with a full family focus. Guests can enjoy free lunch and sno cones, live music, games, fun prizes, and chances to connect with community resource vendors. The local fire department will be on site, and WIC along with other organizations will be available to support families, with a few extra surprises planned. Backpacks will be distributed until quantities run out, and children must be present to receive one.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Licking & Perry Counties presents the first annual Back 2 School Summer Slam Volleyball Tournament, a day filled with matches, cheering, and upbeat energy. Highlights include giveaways of school supplies, raffles with prizes, and a welcoming mix of community and competition. Whether stepping onto the court or supporting from the sidelines, attendees can enjoy a fun back-to-school celebration centered on volleyball.

Children entering kindergarten through sixth grade can dive into a summertime splash fest with showdowns using water balloons, kickball played on a slippery slide, and other lively games that bring plenty of laughter. Participants should wear water-friendly clothing and shoes, and pack a towel. Friends are welcome. Activities will proceed only if the weather cooperates. Registration is available.

This drop-in party celebrates the start of kindergarten with games, crafts, and treats. It is intended for rising kindergartners. Registration is not required, and participation is first come, first served.

Now in its tenth year, the fairies have returned to the Wildflower Trail at Infirmary Mound Park, turning the path into a whimsical neighborhood that welcomes visitors. Fairy attire is encouraged, since these tiny hosts enjoy seeing guests dressed in their finest wings and sparkles. New residents will continue to appear over the summer, and the community plans to remain through September, so each walk may reveal something new. Leave a note at the United Fairy Postal Service for the fairies and their friends, and there is a chance you will receive a reply. While exploring, visit the Nature Playscape at Shelter 5 for extra outdoor fun. To reach the trail, continue straight into the park, turn left at the T, and park by the lake near Shelter 6. Stop at the fairy wing kiosk for a map, then follow the route around the water and watch for signs. The trailhead sits about a quarter mile from the Shelter 6 parking area, and the fairy loop is an additional quarter mile. Please care for the space by being kind to all creatures, packing out everything you bring and avoiding glitter, trash, or plastic, staying on the path since plants like poison ivy and stinging nettle grow nearby, and leaving each fairy house just as you found it so others can enjoy the magic. Share your adventures with #LPDfairytrail.

A community cars and coffee meet centers on a food drive for the food pantry network. A red truck will be parked on the square to be filled with donated food, with a shared goal of surpassing 780 pounds. Expect a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of cars and coffee while contributions are gathered.

Led by instructor Sarah Gray, the fifth annual large scale summer art camp at Bryn Du Art Center is for kids ages 7 and up and focuses on abstract and contemporary styles and techniques using a wide variety of materials. Each participant creates a 32 by 40 inches artwork to take home. All materials are provided, and all skill levels are welcome.

Kids Korner is a free community event, sponsored by the BEST wall, and open to all ages. Children can take part in a new craft each week, with activities planned to keep them engaged and add a little extra fun to their summer. There is no charge for kids to participate.

Parishioners, friends, and family gather to show support for the team, share food and drinks, and connect with one another. It is a chance to be present in the community while living out the Catholic faith.