ANNA MARIA – Sunshine, warm weather, tasty food and plenty of attractions made the 20th Annual Lester Family Fun Day at The Center of Anna Maria Island the perfect event for families to get outside and enjoy themselves.
The event, sponsored by Holmes Beach residents Joey and Chuck Lester, took place Saturday, Dec. 3.
“This is so great, being out here in the sun with the kids, and it doesn’t cost a fortune,” said Anna Rotz, of Bradenton, who brought her daughter, Katie. “It’s December and it’s 80 degrees and the sun is shining; only in Florida!”
DJ Freeze did an excellent job of keeping the music upbeat with both kids and their parents dancing outside, as well as hosting a dance battle between Santa and the Grinch (spoiler alert, Santa won). There was a huge slide, bounce ball and other attractions that allowed the kids to burn off some energy while parents chatted and mingled.
The highlight of the event again this year was the helicopter golf ball drop. People could purchase a numbered golf ball which was loaded onto a helicopter. When the chopper hovered over a makeshift golf hole in the field behind the center, the balls were dropped. The ball that came closest to the hole won $1,000. The children loved the helicopter, and one lucky parent almost certainly loved their big win.
Inside, there were plenty of activities and crafts, a poinsettia sale and treats for all to enjoy.
