Saturday, June 18 was a little bit chilly and breezy – by June standards – but a good crowd turned out for the City of Oakdale-sponsored Summer Fun Fest, taking advantage of informational booths, giveaways, entertainment and more.

The temperature didn’t quite hit 80 degrees, and business was a little slow at the nearby Plunge, as Dorada Park was the host site for the fest. Free admission to the community pool adjacent to the park was featured during the day as part of the event.

Also, Family Support Network, Stanislaus County Health Services Agency, Oakdale Soroptimists, Stanislaus County Library and the Oakdale Rotary Club were among the organizations taking part. There were some food trucks on site for purchases as well.

Oakdale Recreation Services Supervisor Jane Finkenbine said she was generally pleased with the event and the turnout, and especially happy that one particular giveaway item was a big hit.

“We had 120 life jackets donated and we gave them all out,” she explained.

The giveaway of the life jackets, provided by California State Parks, was to highlight the importance of being safe in and around the water.

Elsewhere around the park, balloon artist Irina Wilson had a long line of youngsters waiting for her colorful creations, musical groups ranging from ukulele players to dancers provided the entertainment.

Water balloon tosses by the Rotarians, a photo booth by the Soroptimists and plenty of informational displays combined for a well-rounded event.

Geneva Wells and daughter Emma, 7, stopped by to take in the activities. Emma attends Magnolia Elementary School and Geneva said she was part of a group chat with other moms where she learned about the fun fest.

Finkenbine and Recreation Services Specialist Alanna Bryant were the primary planners behind the Summer Fun Fest.

“It is going well for a first year, first time event,” Finkenbine summarized on Saturday afternoon. “I’m grateful to all the community groups and organizations that came out to put on the fun activities.”