By Robin GOLDSWORTHY

The Montrose Shopping Park hosts the 13th Annual Kids & Kritters Day on Sunday, May 4 in the 2200 block of Honolulu Avenue in Montrose.

From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., this family-friendly event will provide plenty of activities recognizing the diversity that is the Crescenta-Cañada Valley. Among the activities is the chance to get up close and personal when Wild Wonders brings a menagerie of animals that people can learn about. There are three educational shows – at 10:30 a.m, 11:45 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. – that highlight these unusual creatures. Among the animals will be a kinkajoo, opossum, python, pygmy armadillo among other.

“These are animals kids can touch,” said MSPA Business Administrator/Events Coordinator Dale Dawson.

Leading up to the 11:45 a.m. show will be a performance by Revolution Dance Troupe that begins at 11:15 a.m.

In addition, first responders will be on-site to offer demonstrations. The community is invited to meet local law enforcement police, fire & rescue – with their vehicles! A fun zone will be set up specifically for children that provides inflatable slides and even a bungee jump! Pony rides for the little ones will be available as well as Big Farm Petting Zoo.

The community is invited bring their own pets to the 2200 block for the Kids & Kritters event (not to the Montrose Harvest Market though).

The popular Montrose Harvest Market will be open in the 2300 block of Honolulu Avenue. Shoppers will find fresh California Certified and organic produce, flowers, baked goods and specialty foods.

Kids & Kritters and the Montrose Harvest Market take place rain or shine.

“This is truly a ‘family affair,’” said Dawson. “We expect to see more families with children than at any other MSP event all year!”