by Ezabelle Janssen, Staff Writer

PASS CHRISTIAN (GG) — Don’t believe everything you see. Google may claim that the Marsha Barbour Center in rural Pass Christian (DeLisle) is “temporarily closed,” but that is far from true. Alive and bumping, on Sunday, July 13th, the center came alive as it held the Community Family Fun Day—a reminder to the community that the center is here and ready for you.

Hosted by Building the B.E.S.T. Community, Inc. and sponsored by Memorial Health, the event showed off why this community center is the best of the best. The already inviting bright yellow edifice was adorned with rainbow pennant banners and lined by food trucks –like Peezy’s Kitchen, Poor Boyz, and Sunset Sweets– filling the air with aromatic smells accompanied by the musical tunes of DJ Freddie J and surrounded by vibrant round tables where you could find coloring books, jump ropes, and more! But that only encapsulates the visible outside.

Once entering the community center, more fun was in store. The room was lined with tables with various vendors and opportunities, from satisfying that sweet tooth to stimulating the mind. Oh, and don’t forget the fan favorite… face painting.

The lineup showcased the strength and vibrancy of the local community. With beautiful delicacies by Maw Maw Made it and delicious homemade pralines by Sweet Magnolia Pecan Candy. Could it get any sweeter? 

Need to satiate the mind too? Sure thing! The Pass Christian Library set up a wonderful display of books, while various health booths educated the families, and organizations like the Back Bay Mission enlightened attendees about community outreach and how to participate in it.

The fun did not end there. Those who attended got an exclusive perk, a free pool pass—swimming not your thing? It was a good thing they had a bouncy house and a selfie booth, entertaining toddlers to tweens. 

Miss the event but interested in the fun? The Marsha Barbour Center currently offers pool hours on Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. for only $5 per person. Follow them on Facebook to look out for future events. 

The Marsha Barbour Center in DeLisle is a pillar of the community—a place where all are welcome.

(Photos by Ezabelle Janssen/The Gazebo Gazette)