Senior Day in the Park returns to in-person event Wednesday, August 3

After two years, the Whatcom Council on Aging, Meals on Wheels and More and county senior centers will host their annual Senior Day in the Park in person on Wednesday, August 3.

Senior Day in the Park will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hovander Homestead Park in Ferndale, 5299 Nielsen Avenue. The event connects seniors to over 50 local businesses and programs regarding housing, education, recreation and health while listening to live music, eating a barbecued lunch, winning prizes and playing games.

Julie Meyers, director of Whatcom Meals on Wheels and More, said getting back to a traditional Senior Day in the Park feels more meaningful. This year, seniors can be face-to-face with the businesses and programs providing resources, compared to the drive-up events held at the start of the pandemic.

Meyers said people who are looking for assisted living for either themselves or a loved one are able to easily interact with representatives in a low-pressure, community setting. “It’s so much more than just putting a flyer in the bag,” she said.

Most businesses bring swag, Meyers added.

“So it’s a little bit like trick-or-treating, but it’s definitely meaningful trick-or-treating,” Meyers chuckled and rephrased. “It’s trick-or-treating with a purpose.”

Though the event will be in person, there will be added safety precautions, Meyers said. Event organizers will encourage masks, provide additional lines to get food and provide adequate seating to eliminate congregating. Meyers emphasized that people should stay home if they feel sick.

Meyers hopes to provide resources to seniors who cannot attend the event. However, if transportation is the issue, Meyers said they are working with Whatcom Transportation Authority to provide transportation from each senior center.

The event sponsors include VibrantUSA, Signature Healthcare at Home and Edward Jones. PeaceHealth has partnered to help with lunch.

The Whatcom Council on Aging website suggests a $5 donation for lunch but encourages people to join regardless.

For more information, contact Julie Meyers at 360/733-4030 or jmeyers@whatcomcoa.org. Questions can also be directed to Molly Simon at 360/733-4030 or msimon@whatcomcoa.org.