Kids Day at the Mall

While it’s been a mild winter so far, the weather has been dreary.  An annual event at the Midland Mall just might brighten the day for you and your kids.  On Saturday, January 28th, Kids’ Day at the Mall will be held from 10am-3pm.

“It’s a nice respite from the winter blues, a chance to get out and play in the mall, learn about stuff, have a good time, and have some food,” says Esther Williams, the executive director of Midland Recyclers, the parent organization of the ”Kids’ Day.” event.  The target audience ranges from preschoolers to young teens and their families.

Businesses and non-profits provide craft, activities, information, and games.
About 40 businesses and organizations have booked tables. Williams says, ”There will be demonstrations. Every table will have a hands-on activity, crafts, or games.”  Organizations include preschools, Midland Public Schools. City of Midland, Grace A. Dow Memorial Library, Midland Community Tennis Center, and youth sports groups. Williams adds if a business or non-profit, “anybody who has anything to do with kids,“ is interested in reserving a table, there’s still time. Call Midland Recyclers at 989-631-1668.

‘Kids’ Day” will feature performances on and around the stage at the mall’s center court. Nightlife Entertainment will provide a DJ, while the High Country Jumpers will set-up a bounce house by the food court. Mid-Michigan Laser Combat will stage skirmishes every 15 minutes. Williams says, “They’re a really fun group.”
Robotics was demonstrated at a past Kids Day at the Mall.
Attendees will be given passports to have stamped after visiting sponsors' tables. They can then turn in their passports to enter a drawing to win prizes.

Midland Recyclers has served as the parent organization of “Kids’ Day” for the past ten years. It was started about 30 years ago by a local business then turned over to another non-profit before Midland Recyclers took the lead. Williams adds, “It’s a great event. It’s a little bit of a fundraiser for us and builds awareness of Midland Recyclers.”  That non-profit was formed in 1987. Williams has served as the executive director since 1991.Their facility, located inside the gates of the City of Midland Landfill, is a do-it-yourself, drop-off recycling center. ‘Kids’ Day” is one of the educational programs Midland Recyclers offers each year.

Williams says “Kids' Day” will happen rain, snow, or shine. They’re working to get attendance and participation back up to pre-COVID 19 pandemic levels.