Merrick Chamber of Commerce's Kids Fest coming to town

There will be rides, games, carnival fare and plenty of family fun this weekend outside the Merrick Long Island Rail Road station. The Merrick Chamber of Commerce will once again host its Spring Kids Fest from April 25 to 27.

Hours are: 6 to 11 p.m. on Friday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday. About 100 local and area vendors will display their wares and services on Saturday and Sunday, according to Merrick Chamber President Randy Shotland. Friday night is reserved for the rides.

Shotland said this year’s Kids Fest will also feature magic shows, photo opportunities for children with princess and prince characters, a batting cage, musicians performing at the Town of Hempstead’s Showmobile, a fire safety demonstration by the Merrick Fire Department, photo IDs for children from the town and Nassau County, and informational visits by the Army and Coast Guard.

Kids Fest proceeds will fund college scholarships for two students at each of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District’s three high schools, as well as chamber community improvement projects.