For the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Oneida County Youth Bureau is offering a variety of free summer activities for area youth.
The following activities are scheduled: 
12th Annual Sidewalk Art Contest
Who: Youth ages 5-18 are eligible to participate. There are four age categories – 5-7; 8-10; 11-13; and 14-18.
What: Participants will have 30 minutes to draw a positive image on a sidewalk slab.
Where: Pratt Munson Williams Proctor Institute School of Art Campus (MWPI), Utica
When: Thursday, July 14, 10:00 a.m. The rain date is Friday, July 15, 10:00 a.m. Participants should arrive by 9:30 a.m.; the contest will conclude at 10:30 a.m. Judging and medals will occur between 10:30-11:00 a.m. Medals will be awarded to the winners in each category.
Why: To provide local artists with an opportunity to showcase their artistic talents.
For more information on the 12th Annual Sidewalk Art Contest, click here.
4th Annual Utica Blue Sox Baseball All-Skills Clinic
Who: Youth ages 9-12 are eligible to participate.
What: Participants will work with Utica Blue Sox players and coaches to sharpen and improve their baseball skills. Participants must bring their own baseball glove, baseball bat and batting helmet.
Where: Murnane Field, Utica
When: Wednesday, July 20, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. To pre-register, call (315) 798-5027 or visit www.ocgov.net/youth.
Why: To provide local baseball players with an opportunity to sharpen and improve their baseball skills.
For more information on the 4th Annual Utica Blue Sox Baseball All-Skills Clinic, click here.
6th Annual Youth Fun & Fitness Run
Who: Youth ages 4-13 are eligible to participate. There are four age categories – 4-6 (1/4 mile); 7-8 (1/2 mile); 9-10 (3/4 mile); and 11-13 (1 mile).
What: Participants will compete in a race (based on age) on the grounds of Mohawk Valley Community College’s Utica campus.
Where: Mohawk Valley Community College, Utica Campus. In the event of inclement weather, the youth runs will be moved inside to the Jorgensen Athletic Center.
When: Thursday, August 11, 10:00 a.m. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m.; the first race will start at 10:00 a.m. The event will conclude by 12:00 p.m. To pre-register, call (315) 798-5027 or visit www.ocgov.net/youth.
Why: To promote health and wellness at a young age.
For more information on the 6th Annual Youth Fun & Fitness Run, click here.