LAKEVILLE — Between goals Harper Lapierre, 9, said, impatiently, that yes she was having fun, but it was clear she wanted to get back to playing soccer.

That enthusiasm reflected the spirit of the first Lakeville Day, hosted at Ted Williams Park on Sunday, March 26. Lakeville Park Commission members sponsored the event.

Kids appeared entranced by the range of activities put out for them to try. In Lapierre’s opinion, “kicking the goals was better than bingo.” 

“It’s a good event for the kids and it’s a nice day, so it’s bringing everyone out,” said Brian Boyd, as he watched his kids kick soccer balls with chocolate in hand.

Many negotiations could be overheard by the bounce house. Kids on the inside pleaded for just five more minutes with parents on the outside agreeing to give them more time.

The Boy Scouts provided bow and arrow practice, and knot tying, Winberg’s True Value offered a bouncy house and there was a fire truck and front loader construction vehicle to explore. Food and drinks were available too, with marshmallows to roast, the Lakeville Lions Club handed out hundreds of bags of free popcorn to the sound of live music from local bands.

Local vendors promoted their small businesses, while the community supported them.

All day there was a buzz around Troy Manoli’s Ashley Brook Honey booth. He said he’d sold enough honey to make the event worthwhile and something he’d attend again. 

Aside from making sales, he shared his expertise on all things bees and honey, and how the seasons impact them. People were excited to learn more about the process and that honey could be found so close to home. 

The event was created to showcase and give back to the community. 

Lakeville Park Commission members Paula Houle and Melisa Turcotte spent three months working together to arrange the event.

“The two of us worked on it, but she’s our lead lady,” Houle said about Turcotte. Turcotte responded, “We executed it this year because we worked together. It’s all about working together. Teamwork makes the dream work.” 

Houle expects that this event will set a positive tone for future events like a car show, trunk or treat and another Lakeville Day.