Celebrate Kids Day Returns with Fun, Games, and a Splash of Cold Water for a Good Cause

It’s that time of year again! Celebrate Kids Day is back and bringing a full afternoon of fun to the Health & Human Services Complex on Sunday, September 28, from 1 to 4 p.m. Families across Warren County are invited to enjoy an action-packed event filled with games, inflatables, pony rides, and more—the cost: Only $1 per child.

Hosted by the Warren Coalition, Celebrate Kids Day is more than just a party. It’s a community celebration that brings children, parents, and local organizations together in support of a healthier, happier future for area youth.

From pony rides and a petting zoo to climbing walls and racing orbs, there’s something for every child. Face painting, carnival-style games, and a free pumpkin giveaway (while supplies last) are also on the schedule. The inflatable rides are always a hit, and this year includes a giant obstacle course and a bounce house with a slide.

But the real splash of the day comes from the Pitch Burst—a crowd-favorite fundraising challenge where brave volunteers sit beneath a water-filled balloon, just waiting for someone to burst it over their heads.

“Our goal is to raise $6,500 through the Pitch Burst this year,” said a spokesperson for the Warren Coalition. “These funds support prevention and recovery efforts all year long.”

Local leaders have already signed up to take a soaking for the cause, with friendly competition building around who will raise the most money—and get the most water dropped on them.

Donations are collected through Zeffy, an online platform that passes 100% of contributions directly to the Coalition. Donors can support their favorite local personality and help fund programs that aim to build resilience and offer recovery resources to local families. While Zeffy does ask for an optional donation to support its free services, users can choose to decline by selecting “other” and entering $0.

Behind the scenes, Celebrate Kids Day relies on the support of the community to run smoothly. In fact, the Warren Coalition needs 80 volunteers to help run all of the activities throughout the day. From helping with games to managing the inflatables or handing out pumpkins, volunteers are key to making this event a success.

“Volunteering at Celebrate Kids Day is a great way to give back to the community and see a lot of smiling faces,” organizers said. “It’s a fun day with a big impact.”

Thanks to generous support from sponsors, the event remains free for families. This year’s sponsors include:

• Giles B. Cook American Legion Post 53
• George Karnes, Wells Fargo Advisors
• City National Bank
• Front Royal Dental Care
• Rotary Club of Warren County
• Kiwanis Club of Front Royal
• Front Royal/Warren County Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #33
• Rotary of Northern Shenandoah Valley
• Front Royal Elks Lodge No. 2382
• Northwestern Community Services Board

Each sponsor plays a unique role—from funding the petting zoo and pumpkins to supporting music, advertising, and games.

For families attending, there is no cost to participate, but early arrival is encouraged as supplies like pumpkins may run out.

Those interested in volunteering or supporting the Pitch Burst fundraiser can visit the Coalition’s website or reach out directly to celeste@warrencoalition.org for more information.

Celebrate Kids Day reminds us all how powerful community can be—when neighbors come together, kids win.