South Jordan enjoys family fun at Country Fest

It's only been about six months since the Wheaton family opened their business, Madeline's Steakhouse and Grill, in South Jordan.

Thus far they have been well received. When Adam Wheaton heard about South Jordan's Country Fest, he knew it was a must for him to attend.

"The kids love the carnival, so we'd be here either way," he said.

South Jordan city held their annual Country Fest June 29 and 30. This year's theme was "Home-grown Traditions." The event involved artist and crafter booths, food vendors, arena events, a carnival and concerts with event headliners BlackHawk and Little Texas. Local entertainment was also offered.

Heather Smith, South Jordan recreation coordinator, said this is only the second year the city has been in charge of the event. Previously a group of volunteers put on the festival each year. Although nothing was really added this year, Smith said they tried to make everything bigger and better. For example, last year the carnival only included kid rides, and this year rides for adults were added. In addition, more booths and a skate competition were also added.

"The city wanted to do something for its citizens free of charge, so the city could give back to (the community)," she said.

The timing is perfect, because it coincides with the nation's birthday, Smith said. Since Country Fest is a citywide effort, all departments were involved.

"The thing I enjoy the most is getting to know other departments in the city," Smith said. "Every department pulled together, and you get to know other people better."

Kayla Packer lives across the street from City Park, where Country Fest was held. She brought her three nieces and two nephews to the event. Their favorite thing was sitting in a dunk tank, and the simulation of rescuing someone from a fire.

"I'm excited for the concert," Packer said. "We're big fans of BlackHawk."

Laura Webb came to the event with her sister, Cyndy Nelson. Her favorite thing was the Dance Heads, a new event this year. Participants sat in a chair in front of a green screen and bobbled their heads back and forth during a song while the movement was recorded. After the song was over, the person's head is computer generated onto the body of a dancer, which was hilarious, Webb said.

"They put your head on a dancer and give you a CD, then everyone else gets to watch," she said. "I'm glad I did it."

The festival became a business opportunity for Wheaton's sons Chris, 12, and Carson, 6, when he told them that if they could earn enough money, he would buy them an ATV. Both were quick to approach passer-by to offer Popcicles or ice cream sandwiches and worked to sell food items.

"The kids are making money and they've done well," he said.

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E-mail: twalquist@desnews.com