Grayson is set to kick off the official start of summer with a full day of fun, laughter, and community spirit at the 2025 Longest Day of Play, taking place on Friday, June 20 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Grayson Sports Park. The event is free and open to the public, and promises an unforgettable experience for kids and families alike.
Hosted by the UK Cooperative Extension Service, this beloved annual celebration invites local families to enjoy a jam-packed schedule of outdoor games, creative activities, giveaways, music, and more including activities for all ages.
There will be something for every child to enjoy—from classic favorites like sidewalk chalk, duck pond, and ball toss to energetic challenges like a ninja obstacle course and splash pad adventures. Creative kids can dive into sand art and summer crafts, while little thrill-seekers won’t want to miss Plinko, dancing, and the always-popular Helicopter Candy Drop, scheduled for 10:30 a.m. in the field behind the amphitheater courtesy of First National Bank.
The fun continues throughout the day with Storytime in the Park at 11:30 a.m. led by FCS Extension Agent Whitney Morrow at the main shelter, followed by a free school lunch at 12:30 p.m. for youth ages 18 and under.
More than just play it offers an impressive lineup of local vendors and organizations who will be stationed around the baseball fields offering giveaways, games, and activities. Participating groups include: Primary Plus, City National Bank, UK King’s Daughters, East Carter YSC, Empower Athletics, DCBS-Foster Care, Commercial Bank, Carter County Health Department, First Baptist Church, FCC Kids Ministry, and many more. It’s a day built not only for fun, but also for connection and community support.
From the splash of the water pad to the excitement of cotton candy and candy falling from the sky, the Longest Day of Play is a joyful celebration of childhood, summertime, and community unity.
Bring your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and get ready to play your heart out. It’s all happening Friday, June 20, and it’s absolutely free. For more details, contact (606) 474-6686 or email whitney.morrow@uky.edu.
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Carter County Public Library’s Summer Reading Program Kicks Off This Week as the Carter County Public Library is ready to turn up the color this summer with its annual Summer Reading Program returning for 2025.
Running from June 4 through August 1, this year’s theme is “Color Our World,” with each week focused on exploring the arts—from painting and photography to music, dance, and creative storytelling.
The program offers more than just a love of books. It’s designed to encourage educational exploration, socialization, and creative expression—all in a fun, welcoming environment. Kids can expect hands-on activities, themed lessons, and a new adventure each week.
Programs are offered in two locations: Olive Hill with Group #1 meeting Wednesdays, and Group #2 on Fridays, and in Grayson which will hold meetings every Thursdays. All sessions begin at 12:00 noon, and free school lunches will be provided.
Library staff say they’re thrilled to welcome young readers back for another season of fun, learning, and imagination—and they can’t wait to see what the kids create.
For more details, stop by your local branch or visit the Carter County Public Library on Facebook.
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Today marks the final opportunity this week for residents in Eastern Carter County to take advantage of the county-wide clean-up campaign, as dumpsters will be available at the Carter County Maintenance Garage in Grayson until 2:30 p.m. The Solid Waste Department reminds all participants that dumpster access has now returned to its regular three-day weekly schedule and urges the public to follow the updated disposal guidelines.
A number of items will not be accepted, including refrigerators, deep freezers, televisions, household garbage, paint, tires, and batteries. In addition, all items must be either bagged or boxed — loose trash will not be collected.
The Carter County Clean-Up campaign operates on a rotating schedule, providing disposal opportunities for both the eastern and western ends of the county. After today’s event, dumpsters will return to the maintenance garage along US 60 in Olive Hill from June 18th through the 20th.
This valuable community service is made possible by the Carter County Solid Waste Department, who continue to support these efforts to keep our neighborhoods clean, safe, and beautiful.
Let’s all do our part to keep Carter County looking its best!