August 5, 2011 > Get spacy at summer carnival Get spacy at summer carnival By Julie Grabowski Back-to-school sales and dwindling vacation days might remind us that summer is creeping to a close, but Union City keeps the fun alive with its Summer Park and Playground Carnival. Held for over 25 years, the carnival is the annual end of year event for all the participants of Leisure Services' Summer Day Camps, and has hosted between 300 to 350 kids. Seven camps are offered for kids, ages three through 16, including Camp Polliwog (3-5), Camp Hedgehog (5 1/2-8), Discovery Camp (7-12), and Rec-N-Crew Teen Camp (12-16). Kids enjoy games, nature activities, sports, arts and crafts, and other fun activities and field trips, creating an educational and memorable summer. "It's the time everybody comes together as a whole," says Recreation Supervisor Marissa Vera of the carnival. But you don't have to have attended a camp to take part; the public is invited to join in and visit "The Final Fun-tier." The afternoon will be filled with all things space related, and kids can come in costumes if they wish. Leaders and participants of the summer youth and teen programs will man 25 to 30 booths, offering a variety of games and snacks for only 25 cents each (BBQ lunch cost $1). Munch on some Astroid Puffs (popcorn) or Cloud Candy (cotton candy) and try your hand at Alien Aim (target shooting). Test the might of your feet in a game of Space Balls (soccer), take part in Space Wars (slip and slide), or join a full fledged Space Odyssey (relay race). "It lets you know what the community offers," says Vera, adding, "It's a safe and fun event that all ages can enjoy. It's a nice way to close out the summer." And while summer programs are coming to a close, Union City Leisure Services offers a great variety of activities for kids and adults year round. Visit them at www.ci.union-city.ca.us to check out what your next adventure will be. Delve behind those couch cushions, scour the car floor, scoop up all your loose change and mark your calendars for August 10. A carnival of fun awaits! Summer Park and Playground Carnival Wednesday, August 10 Noon - 3 p.m. Old Alvarado/Cesar Chavez Park 3871 Smith St., Union City (510) 675-5488 www.ci.union-city.ca.us Admission: Free Games and snacks: 25 cents each