CHOCOWINITY — A special event for youngsters is slated for Saturday morning in Chocowinity.

ACCEPT and ExCel are joining forces once again to host a Fall Festival Fun Day at the Chocowinity Community Center from 9:30 a.m. until noon, according to Allison Crisp.

“This event is for exceptional children as well as for any child who needs a place to fit in,” said Crisp, who is founder and director of ACCEPT and activities director, along with Allen Pittman, for ExCel. The two Beaufort County-based groups traditionally provide activities for area children with special needs and their families.

“This is starting our schedule of Fun Days that will last through June,” Crisp said. “We’re going to be talking about bullying prevention and respect for others.”

The timing is also right for a seasonal celebration, melding Halloween and Thanksgiving. A costume parade is planned for those who want to dress up and get a little more use from their trick-or-treat costume. There will be a photo booth for special souvenirs of the day, and games and dancing are also planned. Snacks, face painting, crafts and story time will round out the schedule.

Everything is free, but participants are encouraged to bring along a canned item that will be donated to a local food pantry. “But a smile will also get you in the door,” Crisp added.

Children and young adults between the ages of 3 and 18 years, as well as their families, are invited.

For those who cannot attend Saturday’s festival, Crisp issued an invitation for the next Fun Day, scheduled for Nov. 22. On that date, the group will participate in the Chocowinity Christmas parade before gathering for activities and lunch afterwards. Two events are planned in December; Art Day will be held Dec. 13 and a Christmas party is being organized for Dec. 20.

Beginning in January, monthly Fun Day activities will be held, according to Crisp.

“We want this to be something that everybody looks forward to each month,” she said. “We want kids to come and be accepted, and they can be themselves.”

For more information about Saturday’s Fun Day or other ACCEPT and ExCel events, contact Crisp at 252-623-9381 or iacceptallchildren@gmail.com.