The 10th Annual Buddy Walk & Festival will be held on the Great Meadow at Chase Palm Park, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 8. The annual event is a benefit for the Down Syndrome Association of Santa Barbara County (DSASBC).

Hosted by Lin Aubuchon and Bill Pesso of KTYD’s Morning Show, the fundraising event will feature guests including blues and country musicians Pryor Baird of NBC’s The Voice, Superstoked, Hector Hurtado, Jamey Geston, Sofia Guerro and Teen Star Santa Barbara singers McKenna Gemberling, Kimberly Syers and Audrey Harmand.

DSASBC focuses on fostering inclusion and raising awareness for those with special needs and their families in the community.

The festival will have activities for all such as carnival-style games, crafts, silent auction, raffle, face painting, vendor fair, and information booths.

Also on tap is a short ceremonial fund-raising walk around Chase Palm Park promoting acceptance and inclusion of all individuals with Down syndrome.

Home Depot, Devereux, Alpha Resource Center, AMR, Santa Barbara County Sheriff, California Highway Patrol, Zodo’s, and Mad Fitness Santa Barbara will offer activities and information.

Registration fees are $25 for adults, $15 for adults with Down syndrome, and $10 for children ages 3-17. Registration includes admission to the Buddy Walk & Festival, event t-shirt, lunch, snacks and all activities.

Registration is required to participate in the Buddy Walk & Festival. Register in person the day of the event or online at www.dsasbc.org.

Net proceeds from the event stay in Santa Barbara County allowing the DSASBC to support new and expectant parents, enrichment programs, activities, and parent support to enhance the lives of those with Down syndrome, as well as all differently-abled individuals and their families throughout the county.

— Melissa Fitch for Down Syndrome Association of Santa Barbara County.