Old Jail to host family festival

By Melinda L. Lucas

Families are invited to celebrate the beginning of spring break and a traditional holiday from India this Saturday, March 11.

Even though the forecast calls for some wind on Saturday, temperatures are expected to be warm, and the OJAC hopes to host games and crafts in both the Stasney Center and outdoors.

“Family Festival: Holi!” geared toward children of all ages, will begin at 1:00 p.m. and end at 4:00 p.m., with docents, junior docents, and other volunteers helping with activities.

According to Old Jail education director Erin Whitmore, whole families are invited to come and explore the traditional spring “festival of love and color” with Indian-inspired food and music, lots of crafts, and traditional Indian games.

“You can embark on a colorful scavenger hunt, add to our community toss painting, take a swing at the Rangoli piñata, and leave your wish for spring on our Pichkari splash mural,” said Whitmore.

Participants can also investigate collection artifacts during the event.

In India, Holi celebrates the arrival of spring, the end of winter, the blossoming of love and for many, it is considered to be a festive day to meet others, play and laugh, forget and forgive, and repair broken relationships.

The family festival at the Old Jail is free and open to the public.

Those with questions can contact the OJAC education department at 325-762-2936.