NATCHEZ — The first Fall Fun Day benefiting Blair E. Baston Hospital for Children in Jackson was held Saturday, and area parents brought their children out to the bluff in Natchez for a day full of excitement.

Fun Day creator Ron BeQuette said he organized the event to help give back to the hospital that saved his son’s life.

“It is the only children’s hospital in Mississippi,” he said. “It is extremely important to give back to them, because the work they do is saving lives.”

BeQuette said the turnout was great, and he hopes to continue hosting the event every year.

“The hospital is a great place that can always use help,” he said. “You never know how important a place like that is until you need it.”

Brandon Hollis and his 3-year-old son Tristan attended Fun Day and said it is always good to have something fun to do with his son on the weekend.

“It is just a fun family experience,” he said. “And the money is for a good cause and it really helps out.”

Barbara Sanders brought her grandchildren to the event and said she was glad to have some fun and help such a great cause.

“It is a wonderful thing they are doing here to help the hospital,” she said. “It is a beautiful day, and we are enjoying the festivities.”

Nine-year-old Kayla Starr said her favorite game was the ball toss.

“I have had a lot of fun,” she said. “I have run into a lot of friends.”

Kelley Walker brought her 2-year-old daughter Ava and said they had a great time.

“We got here around 11 a.m. and have been having fun ever since we got here,” she said.

Walker also said she was glad to be a part of helping such a great cause.

“I hope this event continues to grow every year,” she said. “It is great to see them helping the hospital that helped them. It is inspiring and amazing.”

Kelly Baroni attended the event with her two children and said it was a wonderful way to spend her day.

“Having something fun for your family to come out and do is great,” she said. “And it is a great feeling to help support the hospital.”

Baroni’s 4-year-old son Parker said he also enjoyed the ball toss the most and was having a great time.

BeQuette said he wanted to thank everyone that came out and showed support for the hospital.

“The money given here today will help the hospital tremendously,” he said. “Words cannot express how grateful I am.”