DennyFest is set to kick off at O.O. Denny Park this Sunday Sept. 9 for the first time under the Finn Hill Neighborhood Alliance.
“It’s a great way to get outdoors before the school season starts,” said Jeff Hoerth, a member of the alliance, “People don’t get out much in their own neighborhood. This is a great outing for everyone.”
The alliance, formerly known as the Denny Creek Neighborhood Alliance, is a 15-year-old non profit organization. It seeks to bring people in the Finn Hill area of Kirkland together through land conservation and environmental stewardship, as well as programs that support and enhance the Finn Hill neighborhood.
Hoerth said they’ve expanded DennyFest’s children’s activities by bringing in a bouncy toy. And it was scheduled earlier in September so that there would be a larger turnout. He hopes to see about 300 to 400.
Two local bands will perform from noon to 4 p.m., the duration of the event, with the Finn Hill Jazz Quartet. Natch’l Thang is described as a rock n’ roll band while Infusionary is more funk. A children’s musician, Ruben Barron, will perform a family comedy magic show and with balloon animals from 1 to 3 p.m.
People and their pets can join a dog parade at 2 p.m. or compete in various canine contests. Entry includes a $2 donation. Plaques and ribbons will be awarded to those who win the competitions – best costume, best kisser, best trick, best young handler, a dog look-a-like contest, perkiest pup and superlative senior.
And don’t forget about the chili and pie eating contests. Contestants bring several gallons of chili and the top three who get the most votes, win.
Other activities include a Trail Tour with Lou Berner, arts and craft projects with Francesca Lyman and public safety awareness with the Kirkland Fire Department.
Volunteers are welcome to help with the arts and crafts projects as well as the Dog Show. To volunteer, contact Meg Tally Hunt at meg@finnhillalliance.org. For more information about the event visit finnhillalliance.org or contact Jeff Hoerth at 206 353 1254.
DennyFest is located at 12032 Holmes Point Drive.
