The sun was shining and the air was cool, but that didn’t stop the residents of New Cumberland from enjoying the festivities at the Hancock County Parks and Recreation’s Mad Hatter Fest. Held at the Gas Valley Sports Complex, the event was a taste of the upcoming summer festival season.
Vendors lined the area, offering food and various items for sale. Local theater group Khymira Entertainment made an appearance, bringing characters from “Alice in Wonderland” to life. An Easter egg hunt added to the fun, while members of the New Manchester Volunteer Fire Department showcased their fire engine for visitors.
One of the highlights of the event was a dunk tank set up by the Hancock County Special Olympics. Volunteers, including coaches, risked being dunked in frigid water to raise funds for the organization. Brenda Ocobock, co-director of the program, explained that this was not the first time volunteers had braved icy waters for a good cause.
The Hancock County Special Olympics currently has about 50 athletes with special needs participating in various sports competitions. Ocobock mentioned that the group will be hosting a fundraiser on June 8 with carnival games and other activities.
Looking ahead, the Hancock County park officials have exciting events planned, including the return of the Ye Olde Medieval Festival and the Folklore Festival. Plans are also in place to enhance the county’s parks with amenities like electricity, water, restrooms, and even a skateboarding park or bicycle path.
Overall, the Mad Hatter Fest was a successful and enjoyable event for the community, showcasing the spirit of giving back and coming together for a good cause.