Go Hug a Tree

contributed photo

Frontier Park is the city's playground. We play soccer and watch movies there. We slide down its snowy slopes each winter. Now, it's time to celebrate the space and what makes it so special – the trees – at the 17th Annual LEAF festival at Frontier Park on Saturday, Sept. 12, hosted by the Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier.

Festivities include a "tree-sure" hunt, tree plantings, fitness events, and educational and nature-based exhibits by LEAF and other local organizations. Food vendors will be available throughout the event and live music will float through the branches. Family-friendly activities such as crafts, face painting, giant bubbles, storytellers and more will keep the kiddos entertained.

A poster contest for kids K-5 will culminate at the event with cash prizes being awarded in three age categories. Deadline for entry is Sept. 11 at 5 p.m. Entrants must depict what they think the "value of trees" are. See the website for details on how to submit.

All sorts of goodies may be won in the Chinese auction, proceeds of which will benefit LEAF educational programming.

Free and open to all, this is a great chance to explore what Frontier has to offer and remind yourself that summer is not over just yet! —Mary Birdsong

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. // 1501 W. Sixth St. // 453.5323, leaferie.org/event/17th-annual-leaf-festival/