Youth center fundraiser channels inner Barbie

There will be pink.

Pink sprinkles on the cookies. Pink LED lights, for some pink ballroom glow. On the Kens, pink bow ties.

Also, for this weekend’s Barbie Party at the Lincoln Center, probably very many pink outfits.

Open to 3- to 10-year-olds and their parents or other adults, the annual event is designed to be a good time for girls, a mix of dress-up, crafts, limousine rides and live entertainment, said Jessica Hyatt, program manager at the Northeast Youth Center, a nonprofit organization affiliated with the Spokane Parks and Recreation Department that provides low-cost activities for children.

Proceeds will benefit a scholarship program that helps pay for kids to participate in recreational activities, Hyatt said: “It’s geared toward kids’ interests to help kids.”

In its 16th year, the event takes on a new theme each year. Last year was about pop stardom. The kids got colorful (chalk) streaks in their hair. They made glittery picture frames and learned a dance.

With a theme based on the “Barbie in The Pink Shoes” movie, “this year’s a little more elegant and ballerina-esque,” Hyatt said.

The event will feature ballet performances and tutu-making along with the chance to ride in a limo, decorate a CD and interact with “real live Barbies” – volunteers in formalwear.

Parents are encouraged to stay. The ticket price covers one child and one chaperone.

And while the event is geared toward girls, boys are invited, too.

“If a boy wants to come, he’s more than welcome to come,” Hyatt said.

He wouldn’t be alone. Besides the bow ties, volunteer Kens will be wearing top hats and serving as escorts.

Adrian Rogers