Draper Days 2015 Delights All

By Megan Mahajan

Draper - Vendor tents filled the park for two days as local businesses supported the community and promoted their items and services. Everything imaginable could be found within those booths; from airbrush tattoos offering body art to those who prefer the art without the commitment, to local churches handing out balloons to children passing by.

West Wind Karate set up a mannequin and had children of all ages lining up to take turns kicking and punching it. Seemingly shy little ones quickly came out of their shells to take their turn with the mannequin, and many even took the instructor’s advice to “poke him in the eyes!” 

A couple of booths down, little girls were lined up to get autographs from “Miss Draper 2015,” Brynn Garfield. Advocating for “Zero Fatalities,” Garfield provided the kids with information about staying safe and happily signed autographs with a big smile for each child.

There was a lot of focus on children, pets and family at this year’s event. Draper Communities That Care was handing out information about protecting the youth of their community through prevention programs. The organization conducts studies to know where they need to focus their prevention efforts for issues such as underage drinking.

While many utilized their booth space to promote a message, a product or a service, a couple of booths were used for political purposes.

Mani Grewal and Michele Weeks, who are both in the running to fill one of the three open seats on the Draper City Council, had booths set up and were happily interacting with all who passed by. Many people put their booth browsing and shopping on hold to stop and hear each candidate’s vision for their city, providing their own insights and ideas.

Across the bridge, on the opposite side of the park, was the car show. Shiny cars of every make, model and color were lined up on display in the hopes of winning prizes. Local car enthusiasts swapped stories and awaited the announcement of the winners.

After walking through the car show, visitors were on canine turf. In this area of the park, the dogs were definitely in charge as they received treats and plenty of attention at the veterinary booths, while enjoying strolls through the park.

The main event for the dogs was the large pool provided by Splash Dogs. Above the pool was a 40-foot dock, and all those who were interested could enter their dogs into a jumping contest. Throughout the day on Friday and Saturday, dogs could be seen flying through the air and into the pool below.

Throughout both days, there was no shortage of activities. Each day kicked off with activities in the park for the whole family to enjoy, as well as the Heritage Festival, which included music and stories, a reptile rescue, pie contests and much more. 

Draper Days came to an end as the sun went down on Saturday evening, but Draper Nights had only just begun. This year’s Draper Nights feature was a concert with Collin Raye, who up-and-coming musician Ellee Duke as his opening act.

With the fireworks show, Draper Days 2015 came to an incredible end. Family time was spent, memories were made, Draper’s communities were celebrated and vendors and participants closed out another successful year of promoting businesses and building relationships.