Sandpoint Parks & Rec announces winter events

If you're looking for something fun to do this winter, Sandpoint Parks and Recreation has a few ideas.

The department recently announced several winter programs for families and community members.

Among them is the Winter Break Camp, which provides all-day care for children in kindergarten through fifth grade on non-student school days at Sandpoint Community Hall. The program, which costs $40 per child per day, includes organized games, arts and crafts, health and wellness activities and social time. 

Drop-off begins at 8 a.m., and pickup is at 5:30 p.m. Scholarships are available, and registered families will receive information packets before the program begins.

Also on the list are Kids Night Out events, which are set for Dec. 20, Jan. 17 and Feb. 21. The event is open to children in kindergarten through sixth grade. Parents get a night out while their kids have fun meeting new friends, doing crafts, watching family-friendly movies and enjoying pizza.

The cost is $35 per event night. Parents must register by Nov. 8 for the November event. Scholarships are available.

For folks looking to put their dancing shoes — non-marking, indoor varieties — to use, the Sandpoint Contra Dance 2024 Series brings live music and dancing to Sandpoint Community Hall, 204 S. First Ave., on the second Friday of each month except August. 

The dances, which run from 7-10 p.m., are open to all ages and experience levels. Beginner instruction starts at 7 p.m. 

Participants should wear comfortable clothes and bring non-marking indoor shoes, as outdoor footwear is not allowed on the dance floor. A $5 donation is suggested. 

Upcoming dates are Dec. 13 and Jan. 10.

For those who like to learn on their off-time, Sandpoint Parks and Recreations is offering CPR/AED certification with optional first aid training.

The American Health & Safety Institute course meets American Heart Association guidelines and is open to those 16 and older, or ages 12-15 with an adult guardian. 

The course, designed for those needing certification for work, OSHA requirements, school or personal knowledge, will be held Mondays, Dec. 16 and Jan. 13, at Sandpoint City Hall council chambers. 

CPR/AED training runs from 4 to 6 p.m., followed by First Aid from 6 to 8 p.m.

For more information about any program or scholarship opportunities, email recreation@sandpointidaho.gov.