By Lauren Schiavone
Hometown Weekly Staff
Dover families in search of something festive and fun last weekend headed to the Legion on Saturday for food, games, music and more at the Dover Mothers Association's (DMA) Fall Family Fun Fest.
DMA Co-Presidents Archana Venkataraman and Mary Hochstin Schneider commented on the spirit of the day.
“We used to have a fall fest for the DMA years ago and it evolved into other things," explained Venkataraman. "It’s a gathering of kids and families and an opportunity to get together and enjoy community.”
Hochstin Schneider agreed that the anticipation had her children looking forward to seeing their friends and staying busy. “There’s food, games, and there was a lot of hype in my house today telling the kids about the DJ and crafts. They know whenever they come, everybody they know will also be there. It’s a very low-key event and you can come whenever you’re able, popping in and out between weekend activities.”
Kids followed a trail of bubbles into the pleasant autumn celebration, where they were greeted by their favorite songs, courtesy of DJ Jim. A dance floor was cleared, where the children were able to run and play all afternoon. When they needed a break for a few minutes, they joined their families at tables and enjoyed pizza.
For those who were less interested in dancing up a storm, there were a few seasonal crafts from which to choose, too. Foam pumpkin decorating presented an easy, mess-free way to get into the Halloween and autumn spirit. Kids who preferred to embellish more edible items were pleased to find cookies to frost. Still others opted to decorate paper bags for an upcoming senior lunch as a sure way to share their smiles.
That sense of altruism also extended outside of the realm of crafts. Donations for the food pantry were turned seasonal as a table encouraged those in attendance to fill a mummy’s tummy with peanut butter and jelly. Donations were placed in a festive mummified box to be sent to local families.
For those in attendance, it was a fun and heart-warming affair -- and an excellent way to spend Saturday.
The Dover Mothers Association will be hosting outings frequently throughout the month -- look out for their playground get-together and more. Follow their instagram @dovermothers and visit their website for more information at www.dovermothers.com.
