In today’s technology based society, it can be hard for parents to find unique, creative, and cheap ways to have fun with their families. However, the Villages of Fairview and Allen have teamed up to offer Village Kids, a series of inexpensive events held throughout the year for children ages 3-12.

“The goal of Village Kids is to offer fun, low cost activities for kids in Allen and Fairview,” Village Kids’ marketing assistant Ayanna Estelle said. “Village Kids also helps families learn more about the shopping center as every event promotes a different retailer. Our biggest events held every year are our Breakfast With The Big Guy (Santa Claus) and Fall Festival.”

The Village Kids program hosts special events on a regular basis.

“We offer one event a month for the kids, typically held at one of the Villages retailers,” Estelle said. “A few past events have been Fitness Fun at the US Taekwondo Academy and a pizza decorating party at Patrizio. We always plan our events on Saturdays or school holidays when the parents are looking for fun and unique ways to entertain their children.”

Children do not have to be a member to participate in the events held by Village Kids, but membership comes with added benefits.

“Membership for an entire year only costs $5,” Estelle said. “If a child becomes a member they receive a card, t-shirt, a free gift at every event, and discounts at participating Village retailers. There are also member only events such as Breakfast With The Big Guy and Breakfast With The Easter Bunny.”

Even though the Village Kids program started only two years ago it has grown to over 250 members with many parents sold on the series of events.

“It has always been hard finding new things to do,” McKinney parent Katie Smith said. “I mean, you can only go to the zoo so many times. Besides things like going to the zoo with three children can start to get expensive. I heard about Village Kids through a friend and so far my family has enjoyed it. The events are different each time, which is good for the kids so they don’t get bored. It’s also nice to be a member since we can go eat in the Villages somewhere and get a deal on food.”

The kids themselves are also enjoying the program.

“I really love going into the Villages and doing the things they have every month,” 10-year-old Hailey Smith said. “It’s a lot of fun what we do and I like to be with my friends when we go. My favorite part is the surprise gift I get whenever we go.”