Rawhide will play host to another Foam Fest on Sept. 19

Kyle Knox
Gila River Indian News

The first day of autumn is Sept. 23, and you can expect more outdoor events with fall approaching. One of the Community’s standout events is the annual Family Foam Fest Run/Walk.  This year the event is set for Thursday, Sept. 19 at the Rawhide Event Center. The event will kick-off the three-day Indian Day Holiday weekend for the Gila River Indian Community.

“The goal of Foam Fest is to create an evening of fun outdoor physical activities for the whole family to enjoy. The event is a youth and elder-friendly event so bring everyone,” said Alie Walking Badger, Special Events Coordinator for the Communications & Public Affairs Office.  

There will be a significant number of activities for all to enjoy including glow yoga sponsored by the Genesis Program, informational booths, on-site food vendors, free family photo booths, a zip line, rock climbing, lawn games, water slides, and a mechanical bull. 

According to Walking Badger, 800 attended last year’s Foam Fest, and due to its continued success, attendance is expected to increase. 

First-time participants should know that there will be foam stations throughout the course so you will get a little wet.  The run/walk is a non-competitive event and is meant for all ages to enjoy. The first 800 participants will receive T-shirts, smoothies, snow cones, and a light meal. Participants that complete the walk/run will receive a finisher medal.

The event is made possible by the Gila River Health Initiative program and coordinated by the Community & Public Affairs Office, which will collaborate with numerous departments for this event including the Gila River Health Care Life Center and Genesis programs, Akimel O’odham/ Pee Posh Youth Council, District 2 Youth Group, Gila River Fire Department and numerous volunteers.

On-site registration will begin at 5:30 p.m., and the elder walk begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the non-competitive run/walk at 7 p.m. For more information, you can contact Alie Walking Badger at (520) 562-9713. Food vendor and informational booths please contact Shannon Redbird at (520) 562-9859.