Holiday fun the old fashioned way

ANNA MARIA – It’s worked for nearly two decades, and the 19th Annual Lester Family Fun Day at The Center of Anna Maria Island did not disappoint.

Holmes Beach residents Joey and Chuck Lester sponsored the all-ages event on Saturday, Dec. 4 with plenty of activities for everyone.

Higher than a two story building, this slide was not for the faint of heart. Jason Schaffer | Sun

“I love how there’s things for any age. The drum line, the dance-off, things for the younger kids, cookies and then the raffles and stuff for the grown-ups,” said Lara Malone, who works for The Center.

Inside, there were activities such as cookie decorating, balloon tying, crafts and more. Outside, there were pony rides, a rock-climbing wall and an inflatable slide that was taller than The Center. Adults enjoyed the 50/50 golf ball raffle. A standard golf hole cut in the grass at The Center was the target for a helicopter that seemed to come out of nowhere, hover over the hole and drop the balls. The closest ball (which turned out to be lucky number 14) won the jackpot.

Holiday fun the old fashioned way
Cookie decorating is a great way to get in the holiday spirit. Jason Schaffer | Sun

In keeping with the theme of “old fashioned fun at old fashioned prices,” admission was free and tickets for activities were only 25 cents each.

Burgers from Duffy’s and ice cream from Small Town Creamery were also on hand to keep appetites satisfied.

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