MUKILTEO – Petting zoos are common at community festivals.
But usually they involve animals.
At the 39th annual Mukilteo Lighthouse Festival running Friday through Sunday, the petting zoo involves musical instruments.
Festival spokeswoman Terry Preshaw said Wednesday that members of the Mukilteo Community Orchestra and Gene Nastri School will let young people play their instruments.
“We’ll rinse the mouthpieces off with alcohol” so it’s safe, Preshaw said with a laugh. “It’s so much fun to watch their little faces light up with the joy of discovery.”
The instrument exploration is just one of many activities at the festival.
A juried art show will display local and regional talent. Also, Preshaw said, an effort has been made to improve the quality of the food, craft and art vendors.
“The art vendors especially are amazing,” Preshaw said.
Highlights Friday include a digital photography exhibit and a salmon bake. Saturday, there’s the Run-A-Muk 5K and 10K run and walk, a fishing derby, a children’s parade, the grand parade, awards for Citizen and Pioneer of the year, and fireworks.
“The whole city comes out for the fireworks show. It’s really fun,” Preshaw said. “I just pray it doesn’t rain.”
And don’t forget the lighthouse. Tours take place each day of the festival.
Preshaw said corporate sponsors saved the festival after the city backed out of providing $35,000 because of projected budget shortfalls. Resident volunteers are running the event.
“It’s been a community builder to have this experience,” she said.
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