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Kidstock Returns to Watauga High School May 19

Story by David Brewer

For the second consecutive year, the Western Youth Network and the Parent-to-Parent Family Support Network will join forces in presenting Kidstock V. On Saturday, May 19, the groups will take over the campus of Watauga High School for a day of music, games, activities and all-out fun for kids and parents of all ages.

According to Western Youth Network Executive Director Jennifer Grubb, organizers are hoping to top last year’s 500+ attendance numbers so that each group can continue to provide service and support to the hundreds of youth and families that rely on them throughout Watauga County.

“Transportation is a big deal for us and gas is so expensive now,” said Grubb. “Anything we earn will probably go to our funding so we can keep taking kids to and from activities.”

Kidstock V will be nonstop fun for kids of all ages as games and activities throughout the day. For those who love bounce around and be silly, Jump! of Boone will be on hand to provide inflatable fun including the moon walk, bungee run, gladiator joust, Jurassic adventures, extreme challenge obstacle course and a giant slide.

Kids can also test their agility and strength on the climbing wall that will be open throughout the day.

Younger festival attendees will be able to participate in face painting, crafts, balloon animals and carnival games taking place both inside and out. Kidstock V will also have plenty of food on hand for hungry festivalgoers.

As with last year’s Kidstock, local youngsters will provide musical entertainment for the event while vying for top honors in the annual battle of the bands. Band members planning to contend in the battle should recruit as many friends and fans to attend as possible because the competition is based on audience response. The battle will be open to middle and high school bands of all types.

Last year’s Kidstock battle of the bands winners The Jolly Rogers will host a CD release party this Friday, May 11, at Boone Saloon.

Kidstock V will take place rain or shine. Tickets are $4 for adults and $3 for children and will be on sale at the event. Children under two may enter free of charge.

Sponsors for Kidstock V include HomeCare Management Corp., Wachovia, JUMP! of Boone, Qwrk Design and the Avery/Watauga Association of Realtors.

Kidstock organizers are looking for more sponsors as well as volunteers to help make the event a success. To participate, contact Grubb at the Western Youth Network at 828-264-5174.

Want To Go?

Date: Saturday, May 19
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Watauga High School
Cost: $4 for adults/$3 for kids/free for children under two.