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At Baby Fest 2008 babies have their day.

Yes, they’re cute and they’re cuddly, but babies are a big responsibility, and Baby

Fest organizers The Doula Connection are there to help new parents.

During the 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. event on Feb. 23 at the Kern County Fairgrounds, parents, parents-to-be and grandparents will learn the tools to keep their bouncy babies safe, healthy and happy.

Their questions and concerns will be answered.

“It’s a one-stop event to learn everything about babies. It’s about education. If we could have one year without one baby drowning in a pool or being shaken or harmed because of postpartum depression, then we did our job,” said Marsha Bidwell, organizer of the event and owner of The Doula Connection. “No matter what you do in life, even with driving a car, you need an education. You need the education in becoming a parent.”

Bidwell has been planning the event for the past four years. Currently the event has about 100 vendors on hand to answer parents’ questions and offer helpful info on childcare and child safety.

Vendors include Spoiled Rotten, Cal Treasure, Costco, Inky-Dinky-Do, First 5 Kern, the Kern County Fire Department and the Bakersfield Police Department.

“You will learn things like how to clean your home with natural, baby safe products,” said Bidwell. “You’ll also learn what kind of finances you will need to have a baby, and how to save for things like college. We’ll have a realtor, info on day care within the community, and local mommy support groups.”

For those fashionistas of all ages, there will be a fashion show at 12:30 p.m. Maternity, baby and children’s clothing will be modeled.

The Party Corral will keep the little ones all smiles and giggles with fun activities for them. There will be a petting zoo, pony rides, choo-choo trains, Watermelon the Clown, and food vendors at the event, as well as prizes for a diaper derby and a cutest baby contest.

Tickets to the event are $5 for adults and free for children under 10. Parking is $3.

Baby Fest 2008
Kern County Fairgrounds
Feb. 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tickets for $5, free for children under 10
Parking $3