Family fun activities can be expensive these days. That’s why I was excited to see that Keystone Substance Abuse Services has a free festival coming up. COOLFest, which stands for Celebration of Our Lives Festival, will take place May 19, 2012 in Old Town Rock Hill from 10am-3pm. This event is free, except for food and drinks, and features exhibits, contests, and inflatables.

COOLFest is designed to promote healthy living choices among area kids. Among the activities that will take place are a Guitar Hero Competition sponsored by Best Buy, face painting by Miss Ashley, Texting Wars sponsored by Comporium, and Disc Golf hosted by Innova Disc Golf. Mascots will be there to join in the fun including Homer from the Charlotte Knights, McGruff, and Dora. Your child can build a bird house or fire truck complements of Home Depot and an entertainment stage will put a spotlight on local talents (singing, dancing, musicians).

Out of all the activities, I’m most looking forward to York County Idols. The Top 10 contestants from a preliminary audition (has already been held) will compete on stage. The audience will get to pick a ‘people’s choice’ winner.

COOLFest will take place rain or shine.