Summer vacation is just about over, and the Seymour Parks and Recreation Department wants to help area students get ready to go back to school.

From noon to 2 p.m. Friday, kids and their families are invited to Shields Park for the annual End of Summer Escape.

One of the highlights of the event is a raffle for free backpacks filled with school supplies, said Parks Director Stacy Findley. The drawing will be at 1:45 p.m.

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“We still want children and families to be excited about the start of the new school year,” she said.

This year’s event will look different than it has in the past due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To prevent the spread of the virus, there will be no bouncy houses or inflatables for kids to play on, Findley said.

But they can try their luck at a dunk tank, she said. For $1 a throw or $5 for six throws, kids and adults can take a try at dunking city department heads.

The Seymour Fire Department also will be onsite for children to get their picture taken with a firetruck.

During the event, families can visit with local nonprofits, including Jackson County United Way, Anchor House Family Assistance Center and Pantry, Children’s Bureau Inc., Covering Kids and Families, Seymour Parks and Recreation Department, READ Jackson County and Fraternal Order of Police Donald M. Winn Lodge 108. Each organization will have information on programs, resources and services they offer.

The FOP plans to serve up free refreshments, including hot dogs and snow cones, and the parks department will have free popsicles and water available.

Booths will be set up in the entrance area of the pool to allow for more social distancing, and admission into the pool will be free that day, Findley said.

“The pool has been a great example of how folks can still enjoy recreational activities while using safety precautions,” she said.

Masks are not required, but all parks staff and others involved with the event will be wearing them, Findley said.

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What: Seymour Parks and Recreation Department’s End of Summer Escape

When: Noon to 2 p.m. Friday; drawing for backpacks filled with school supplies will be at 1:45 p.m.

Where: Entrance area at Shields Park Pool

Cost: Admission to the event and the pool is free

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