Southport Magazine

Vehicles of all varieties will roll into the Cape Fear Regional Jetport Saturday, Oct. 14 for Big Toy Day, a family-friendly event hosted annually by the Kiwanis Club of Southport-Oak Island. The popular event, which will be held from 10 am to 3 pm, gives children of all ages an opportunity to climb aboard a variety of motorized vehicles, including firetrucks, ambulances, and military and law enforcement vehicles. There will also be planes, helicopters, water rescue boats, and various other “toys” of interest. A coordinated blowing of horns and sirens will close the day’s activities.

More than 1,500 children and their families attended last year’s event, which one young attendee described as “the best day ever!” Children typically leave with trinkets distributed by the generous volunteers that accompany the vehicles. Bounce houses and food vendors will also be on site.

A highlight for children ages 8-17 will be free airplane rides between 10:30 am and 

1 pm, courtesy of the aviation group EAA Chapter 939. Dubbed Young Eagle Flights, they will be offered on a first come, first served basis, and will require written approval by a parent or legal guardian who is present. In most cases, grandparents do not qualify as legal guardians. 

“Kids love Big Toy Day,” said event chairman George Bayless. “They get to see and touch ‘big machines’ that they wouldn’t normally get to climb aboard. It’s always a memorable day for them, and a fun family outing for all.” 

Admission and parking are free, however, a $10 per car donation would be welcomed. Contributions received from this event will support a variety of youth programs in Brunswick County, including Royal Readers, Terrific Kids, Builders Club, and Key Club. The proceeds will also fund scholarships for deserving Brunswick County high school seniors and Brunswick Community College students.

Kiwanis Club of Southport-Oak Island is dedicated to serving the children of Brunswick County through service, education, guidance, and leadership. The club supports numerous programs in the county’s elementary, middle, and high schools designed to instill a life-long commitment to service and to develop the skills necessary to become community leaders. The organization also supports projects like Matthew’s Ministry, the Tim Tebow Foundation’s Night to Shine initiative, First Tee, and local food pantries through a Giving Garden. 

“We believe in children and want to provide all kids with an opportunity to thrive, prosper and grow,” said Kathleen Bradcovich, president of Southport – Oak Island Kiwanis. “We’re a global organization, but we’re dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.”

Visit www.SOIKiwanis.org to learn more about Kiwanis.