Wild West Fest is Aug. 19 at Pleasant Hill

Pleasant Hill Lake Park will transform into the American Frontier and provide multiple activities for children and adults on Saturday, Aug. 19.

“It’s a kid-friendly and family event,” said Louie Andres, Pleasant Hill program specialist. “There are live farm animals to pet, pony rides, western-themed activities, games and hayrides.”

Wild West Fest includes a naturalist on duty for two hours. Visitors can see and feed live animals, visit the fish mural and history exhibit, and check out the new osprey display area.

Guests also can try their skill and luck at panning for real gold, as well as attend a family craft event tailored toward all ages. Gold panning enthusiasts are asked to meet at the welcome center deck.

“Ride a live pony, a petting farm with goats, sheep, cows, chickens and rabbits,” Andres said. “There will be a free hayride and a free activity zone with a playground, cornhole, pickleball and basketball courts with a free loan of equipment.”

The pony rides and petting farm follow the craft activities, but the treat of the day for adults will come early in the afternoon. Grab that Axe is specifically for adults with an axe-throwing area set up for them to try their skill at axe throwing.

Free hayride tickets can be picked up at the welcome center, and the rides are slated to start in the morning.

Andres said picnic tables and charcoal grills will be accessible during the day along with hiking on marked trails. A swimming beach area and inflatable water park at LandzEdge with extra fees also will be open.

The day can be a family outing.

“This has been going on for 10 years now and is a great event for kids and families to spend time outdoors and interact with farm animals and ride a pony,” Andres said.

Upon arrival guests can pick up a list of self-directed activities with park and naturalist staff on hand to assist with any activities, questions or programs.

For more information on Wild West Fest including start times for each of the day’s activities, call 419-938-7884 or visit the event’s page on the PHLP website at https://pleasanthillpark.mwcd.org/calendar/2023/08/19/wild-west-fest.

Just leave the chaps at home on this return to an American wild west adventure.