Hundreds celebrate Children’s Day in joyful community event
Laughter, music and celebration filled the air on Saturday as over 500 children and their families gathered downtown to celebrate Día del Niño, or Children’s Day, a cherished tradition honoring the joy and importance of children in the community.
This year’s event, held at the Hays County Courthouse, welcomed a record turnout. The surge in attendance was in part thanks to the Just for Fun Parade, which concluded near the courthouse and brought an even larger crowd to the festivities.
Families enjoyed a lively afternoon of games, entertainment, crafts, and activities designed to celebrate and uplift the young ones. Booths were set up by various local organizations, offering everything from face painting and balloon animals to educational activities and treats.
“This event is truly a labor of love,” Pastor Lucy Gonzalez from PromiseLand Church said. “We are overwhelmed by the community’s response this year. It’s a blessing to see so many smiling faces and to know that together, we created a special day for so many children.”
Día del Niño is a beloved holiday in Mexico and other Latin American countries, recognizing the rights, needs, and importance of children. San Marcos has continued this tradition for several years, with local nonprofits, churches, and small businesses collaborating to ensure a memorable experience for families.
“We couldn’t do this without the amazing community that shows up year after year,” Gonzalez said. “Every smile today made all the hard work worth it.” Organizations Present:
This year’s Día del Niño celebration drew a record crowd to the Hays County Courthouse law with over 500 children and families in attendance. Submitted photos
Bexar County Community Health Collaborative Hays County Health Department Mothers Against Drunk Driving Maximus Dell Children's Health Plan Head Start/ Community Action Inc Southside Community Center CASA of Central Texas Texas State University Latina/o Studies Texas State University- College of Education - Dept of Curriculum and Instruction Greater San Marcos Youth Council Methodist Healthcare Ministries Hays County Child Protective Board Centro Cultural Hispano de San Marcos City of San Marcos WIC SMCISD-Multilingual Education Services Hays County Young Democrats Cenikor Foundation PromiseLand Parents as Teachers
