With the timely new theme of “Health and Wellness,” the fourth annual WNED Kid Fest features a host of activities that will keep children engaged, informed and excited about learning. This high-energy weekend event takes place in the WNED Studios in downtown Buffalo (140 Lower Terrace, next to the Adam’s Mark Hotel) on February 6 (noon - 5 pm) and February 7 (noon - 4 pm). Free, secure parking is available.

“The WNED Kid Fest builds on the remarkable power of public broadcasting in children’s lives,” said WNED President and CEO Donald K. Boswell. “We are proud to bring opportunities to young children that foster learning and offer a trusted, non-commercial alternative among the broad array of media and entertainment choices available.”

This year, Kid Fest features six popular PBS characters who will meet, greet and have their pictures taken with young fans.

• Buddy is the young Tyrannosaurus Rex who stars in Dinosaur Train,PBS’ newest animated series from The Jim Henson Company.

• WordGirl (alias Becky Botsford) is a mild-mannered fifth grader who transforms into a caped crusader in the brave pursuit of better vocabulary for all.

• Sid the Science Kid is a passionate problem-solver who helps preschoolers discover the foundations of science.

• Curious George is a mischievous monkey who motivates kids to investigate and understand their world.

• Super Why and his “Super Reader” friend, Princess Presto, star in a groundbreaking PBS series that brings fairy tales to life and promotes reading.

“This year’s focus will be on helping kids learn how to stay well and healthy,” said WNED’s Special Events Producer Mindy Takacs. “Yet, the variety of activities will promote other important learning objectives, including reading, writing and creativity.”

Among numerous Kid Fest highlights, live performances throughout the two days will entertain the crowd with stories, songs and demonstrations – and get kids involved in learning. The Buffalo Museum of Science will sponsor stage shows with Sid the Science Kid and Buddy. Other presentations feature music, magic, martial arts and fun, physical movement. In addition, a puppet show and “Kids in the Kitchen” session will promote good nutrition.

PBS Kid Vision 2010 will take place inside an actual broadcast studio. Guests can “step into” a PBS show, viewing themselves on a television monitor along with their favorite characters.

The ThinkBright and Well Activity Zone will offer a free book for each child, plus games and crafts. Reading and writing, as well as the health and wellness theme, will be emphasized.

Kid Fest also features temporary tattoos of PBS characters; face painting; a PBS KIDS coloring contest, raffles, prizes, low-cost snacks and much more.

Tickets cost $10 per adult and $7 per child age 1-12. Ticket sales are limited and may be used one day only. All proceeds benefit WNED-TV, ThinkBright and Well TV, and radio stations WNED-AM 970 and Classical 94.5/WNED.

In addition, two WNED Kid Fest Character Breakfasts will again take place in Buffalo and Southern Ontario. During both events, young fans can hobnob and dine with all the visiting Kid Fest characters plus local mascots. The cost ($20 per adult and $15 per child ages 1-12) includes a full buffet breakfast with kid-friendly foods.

The U.S. event returns to the Pearl Street Grill (76 Pearl St., in downtown Buffalo) on Saturday, Feb. 6 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. All attending also receive complimentary admission to Kid Fest at the nearby WNED Studios during an exclusive mid-morning timeslot.

The Canadian version will once again be hosted by Dave & Busters (120 Interchange Way, Concord). The event takes place Saturday, Feb. 13 from 9 to 10:30 am, and includes fun, educational activities, such as a coloring contest, crafts, games and prizes.

For more information and updates, or to purchase tickets for the festival or either breakfast, visit wned.org or call (888) 202-2859.

WNED Kid Fest 2010 is supported by businesses and nonprofit organizations involved with educational experiences and entertainment for children and families. BlueCross BlueShield of Western New Yorkis the presenting sponsor. Sponsors include the Buffalo Museum of Science, Corning Museum of Glass, Bounce Magic, the UB Smile Team and Wardynski’s Meats. Community Partners include the Pearl Street Grill & Brewery and Dave & Busters. Western New York Family magazine is the media sponsor.

Through WNED-TV, ThinkBright and Well TV, Classical 94.5/WNED-FM and WNED-AM 970 The Information Station, the member-supported WNED provides high quality programming and services that enlighten, inspire, entertain and educate our communities.