The Tuscarawas County Public Library (TCPL) held its seventh annual El Dia de los Ninos/El Dia de los Libros family event on Saturday, April 30. Each year this special multicultural celebration grows, with more families in attendance and added entertainment and activities, highlighting the importance of literacy.
Carnival games, tortilla demonstrations, balloon twisting, face painting, live music, free books, refreshments, treat bags, costumed characters, and a bilingual clown were just some of the things taking place during the celebration.
Sponsored by Huntington Bank, El Dia de los Ninos/El Dia de los Libros (Day of Children, Day of Books) continues to be an entirely free event that draws hundreds of families each year to the TCPL.
This is the first year, said Steph Baird, childrens services manager and coordinator of the event, that we have Dora and Diego for the children. We are always happy to have Chulo the Clown come from Columbus. The kids love his magic tricks and elaborate balloons.
Carnival games were played outside in the big tent with prizes for everyone who participated. Penny Marshall, Missy Littel, Baird, and Christine Bowman twisted balloons into many different things including animal bracelets. Face painting was available on both levels of the library. Refreshments were handed out in the garage and a group from Even Start demonstrated tortilla making in the lower level, giving samples away as fast as they made them.
Local musician Ricardo Ramos serenaded the guests with his traditional Spanish music. His singing and guitar playing drew children and adults, and some small children could be seen dancing to the music.
Wacky Wally the chicken and Dora and Diego were greeted with hugs and were available for pictures with the children.
The Tuscarawas County Literacy Coalition, said Baird, purchased books so that each child who came today could take one home.
Jodi Dean, of New Philadelphia, brought 2-year-old Laynee who chose a book entitled Hugs & Kisses.
This is our first time here, said Dean. Weve been talking about it all week.
At 2 p.m., everyone gathered in the garage for the breaking of the piñata. Children were given turns pulling on strings that held the huge, brightly-colored decoration together.
The piñata is filled with balloons, said Michelle Ramsell, TCPL director, and confetti. Then, every child is given a treat bag, so no one is left out.
One of the big highlights of the El Dia de los Ninos/El Dia de los Libros celebration was the visit from Chulo the bilingual clown. He kept the childrens rapt attention as he performed magic tricks and made unusual balloon sculptures while interacting with the children and doing a wonderful job of clowning around.
We couldnt do this each year, said Baird, without all of our volunteers. We also have Dover High School Spanish class students that take time out to help and do such a great job with the kids.
This years TCPL multicultural event brought families together in the community, celebrated children and literacy, and provided a fun-filled day for everyone.
