Fairfield creates virtual arts center for more community things to do

Fairfield has unveiled a Virtual Community Arts Center, which will connect members of the community to a variety of programming, activities, and online events during closures.

”This Virtual Community Arts Center that we’ve opened is an opportunity for people to get a taste of some of the same type of programs that we would offer regularly,” said David Sheldrick, marketing specialist for Fairfield Parks and Recreation.

Each week, the center will provide free art, education, performance, and fitness resources on the city of Fairfield’s website. There will be a different theme every week.

“Although it’s not here (in-person) at the Fairfield Community Arts Center or any of our other facilities, it is an opportunity to still be part of the community, and it provides guests with a wide variety of activities and programming during these challenging and trying times,” Sheldrick said.

This week is “End of School Week,” and on May 25-31, there will be a patriotic theme, tying the activities in with Memorial Day. Participants will find a variety of do-it-yourself projects, printouts, videos, online puzzles, games and much more.

“We miss being involved in the community, and we miss seeing everybody. This is a way for us to reach out and still be in touch with those in the community,” Sheldrick said.

The Virtual Community Arts Center offers suggested activities and programming for each day like “Learning to Sew” and “Cooking French Toast” to a “DIY Hand Painted Wooden Pencil Door Sign” or “School’s Out Bingo.”

“People can stop in when it’s convenient for their schedules. You can hop on the website look at last week’s activities or pick and choose those you might enjoy. There are activities and programming for all ages, so there are a lot of opportunities to have some fun,” Sheldrick said.

May is National Bike Month, so there are activities related to bicycling, such as “DIY Bike Streamers” and “Creating a Bicycle with Shapes.”

To comply with public health directives from Gov. Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Health, the city of Fairfield has rescheduled, modified, or cancelled many summer programs. For the latest news and updates, visit www.fairfield-city.org.

For example, the traditional Memorial Day parade and ceremony has been cancelled, however, there will be a private Memorial Day ceremony with minimal dignitaries that will be broadcast on Fairfield TV and Facebook Live at about 11 a.m. on Monday. The event will include a recognition of veterans and their families.

“While we’re not getting together, we are still trying to honor our veterans,” Sheldrick said.

Additionally, the festivities in conjunction with this year’s Red, White & Kaboom have been cancelled, but the city will still host a firework display on Friday, July 3 at 10 p.m. Officials are working with Rozzi’s Fireworks to produce a more aerial show, so the fireworks can be viewed at a greater distance. The soundtrack for the fireworks show will be streamed live on the radio. There will be no organized activities on city property.

About the Author