Closing out a year when more than 60 children were murdered, hundreds of families yesterday poured out to the Christmas Kiddiefest at Hope Gardens, St Andrew, to enjoy the Boxing Day activity.

The lawns of the gardens were transformed into a playground with numerous rides, attractions and entertainment for the little ones.

"It's a nice family event," said Angella McPherson, as she strolled along with her two boys, a friend's son and her husband.

On the grounds, an elf, clad in yellow and green outfit, was mobbed by the children as his colourful outfit drew them to him.

At another section of the historic venue, children got their faces painted and sprayed temporary tattoos on their bodies.

Smiling faces

Artistic designs of butterflies and stars came alive on the smiling faces of the young ones.

The rides were not spared by the little ones. The children flocked the trampoline, bounceabout and donkey-cart rides.

Numerous parents were seen dipping into their pockets to fulfil the desires of the children who wanted an extra ride.

"This is mostly for the children because it makes them happy," said Sharon, a single mother who took her two daughters to the children's festival.

Future plans

McPherson, however, suggested that if the event was held again, the fees for the rides would be included in the cost of the tickets. Admission was $300 for adults and $200 for children.

Most rides were $50 each.

While the children took advantage of the cartoon-inspired rides, the adults enjoyed the shade of the trees. Many read a book or slept while the children frolicked.

After the children became exhausted from all the excitement of the rides, they indulged in snow cones, popcorn, hot dogs and a variety of candies.

The merriment would not have been complete without a few offerings for those who had not finished their Christmas shopping, so several booths had men's, women's and children's apparel for sale.

The children's festival was sponsored by The Gleaner's Children's Own newspaper.