Bismarck and Mandan families are invited to the annual Teddy Roosevelt Family Day this Sunday, September 27, at the McDowell Dam. The event, scheduled from 1 to 4:30 p.m., is specifically designed for children aged 6 to 12 and aims to provide a hands-on experience in various outdoor activities, connecting young people with the North Dakota environment.
Attendees can explore 30 different activity stations, offering a wide array of engaging opportunities. Children will have the chance to try fishing and casting, learn archery, and participate in tomahawk and spear throwing. For those interested in more dynamic pursuits, paintball activities and shooting ranges will also be available. The event extends to water-based recreation, with stations dedicated to boating and scuba experiences. On land, kids can engage in hiking and biking, exploring the natural surroundings of the McDowell Dam area. A significant collaborative effort from over eighteen different federal, state, county, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and private business experts will ensure the day is both successful, safe, and fun for all participants. These experts will provide guidance and supervision across the various stations, ensuring a rich learning experience.
Local scouting groups will be present to offer further opportunities for youth involvement in the community. Representatives from organizations such as the Girl Scouts, Scouts America, and 4-H members will be on hand to provide information on how kids can get involved in year-round activities that foster similar outdoor skills and community engagement. To encourage participation and recognize effort, prizes will be awarded throughout the event. The first nine hundred children attending will receive a free Teddy Roosevelt patch. Additionally, specific prizes will be given out for achievements in archery, BB gun shooting, fishing, and animal identification, adding an element of friendly competition and recognition for learning new skills.
The Teddy Roosevelt Family Day serves to honor former President Teddy Roosevelt, who held a significant interest in the nation's youth and their connection to the outdoors. Roosevelt's vision emphasized keeping young people motivated and actively involved in outdoor pursuits. This annual event aims to extend that legacy to North Dakota kids, providing them with practical experiences that highlight the joys and benefits of engaging with the natural environment. It offers a unique opportunity for children to discover what they enjoy about the North Dakota outdoors, aligning with Roosevelt's enduring message about the importance of outdoor education and recreation.
Scheduled for the first official weekend of Fall, the event at McDowell Dam provides an ideal setting for families to enjoy the changing season while exploring a diverse range of outdoor activities. By bringing together various community groups and expert organizations, the Teddy Roosevelt Family Day underscores a commitment to youth development and environmental appreciation within the Bismarck-Mandan area. This annual gathering continues to be a highlight for local families seeking enriching, hands-on experiences for their children, fostering a lasting connection to North Dakota's natural resources and outdoor traditions.
