Smiles all around at Merrick Chamber's Kid Fest

The 13th annual Merrick Kid Fest filled downtown Merrick with smiles and laughter as hundreds of children came for two days of games, rides and fair food this past weekend.

Organized by the Merrick Chamber of Commerce, the festival promotes community togetherness while showcasing local businesses.

“It was the largest festival we’ve had in the history of Merrick,” said Randy Shotland, the chamber president.

Part of the festival proceeds go to scholarships given to a student at the three local high schools — Mepham, Calhoun and Kennedy. Recipients must demonstrate community leadership, according to Shotland.

The festival featured 175 vendors, as well as amusement park rides, face painting, photography, balloon animals, magic shows and live performances by the Merrick Theatre.

“It’s about giving back and keeping our economy and community alive,” Shotland said.

Kid Fest is one of two major festivals that the chamber organizes each year, the other being the annual Merrick Fall Festival, to be held this year on Sept. 7 to 9.