IF Youth Jam roars on

The Idaho Falls Arts Council’s Roaring Youth Jam kicked off Thursday. The theme is Monstrous Fun. All activities are taking place in the Snake River Greenbelt. Kids are encouraged to express themselves through arts and crafts.

“This is our favorite event of the year. It’s really at the heart of our mission of what the Arts Council is about,” said Council Executive Director Brandi Newton.

The council said its goal has been to increase artistic freedom throughout the Idaho Falls area.

“It’s 100 percent free because we want you to have these experiences,” she said. “We hope we spark something in you that gives you a way to express yourself that maybe you didn’t know you liked doing.”

In the midst of back-to-school season, 12-year-old Lynzee Gifford said she feels more art mediums are needed in the classroom.

“I love art. I like how there is different types and you can express yourself and how you feel to show what you feel art should be,” she said.

Lynzee volunteered at this year’s event and said she hopes the community begins to appreciate art in a new way.

“I want to leave knowing I made and impact,” she said. “I’ve met a lot of great people, and it’s just been a fun day.”

The event will also host the following performances:

Friday, Aug. 8
3 p.m. Eagle Rock Dance
7 p.m. Battle of the Bands

Saturday, Aug. 9
10 a.m. Stasia
11 a.m. Idaho Falls Youth Arts Centre

The Arts Council will also continue arts education for youth at its Artitorium on Broadway grand opening Aug. 15.