The Boston Traveler

It’s almost time to head over to Boston Common and play like a kid, even if you’re not one.

From 11am to 6pm on Saturday, July 19, downtown Boston will host the Life is good Festival, an annual summer event guaranteed to make residents and visitors alike feel pretty darn good, no matter what their age.

The fundraiser, always free of charge to the general public, features a number of physical activities that reflect the infectious spirit and energy of youth. One of the most popular is the competition to be crowned the World’s Greatest Backyard Athlete, a victory that announces to the world that the winner rocks at spitting Watermelon seeds as far as possible, making a Frisbee fly through the air, and navigating the twists and turns of a challenging obstacle course.

There’s not a better way to make your mark on history, especially since all proceeds, raised through pledges, benefit the Boston-based nonprofit children’s charity Project Joy, which is dedicated to using “the healing power of play to transform kids sidelined by violence, poverty and loss into healthy and joyful players in the game of life.” In fact, 100 percent of the funds raised at Life is good’s various outdoor festivals in thirteen states is donated to indispensable charitable organizations that assist children.

Other highlights to look forward to on Saturday include team-oriented games in the Joy Zone; arts and crafts and other cool-down activities in Chillville; and a variety of traditional games, such as treasure hunts and Hula Hoop spinning, in Jake Town.

And then there’s the entertainment attendees can observe, this weekend ranging from the previously mentioned World’s Greatest Backyard Athlete competition; Double Dutch and Hula Hoop demonstrations; and music from Electric Youth (who also dance!), Melvin Sparks, Robert Randolph and the Family Band, and children’s entertainer SteveSongs.

Remember, this is all free, meaning there’s no excuse not to stop by and mingle for at least a little while if you’re in the area. Visit the Life is good website for additional information, including how to contribute to the organization’s very worthy cause. You can also take a look at the promotional video for Saturday’s event below to get an idea of the Life is good founders’ laid-back and fun-loving approach.

Boston Common: Charles Street and Beacon Street at the Green Line Subway Park Street and Boylston Street Stations

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