RAPID CITY, S.D. — Main Street Square and Mitzi’s Books are bringing back free summer programming for children in downtown Rapid City with the return of Storytime in the Square and the launch of Splash Labs, a weekly STEAM focused activity series.

Storytime in the Square begins June 4 and will take place Thursdays at 11 a.m. at Main Street Square. The program will include volunteer readers, giveaways, prizes and themed activities throughout the summer. Organizers said this is the second year for the outdoor storytime series and they are expanding the experience with special guests and themed events.

Brenda Beal of Mitzi’s Books said a variety of community volunteers will participate in the readings, including performers from Theatre 605 Black Hills Playhouse who may appear in costume during some storytimes. She also said the first event on June 4 is expected to include a visit from the Raptor Center, which plans to bring owls to the square for children to see.

Splash Labs begins June 2 and will be held every Tuesday at 10 a.m. through July. The free nine week series is designed for school aged children and focuses on hands on science, technology, engineering, art and math activities that encourage creativity and problem solving.

Pomai Lindenthal of Main Street Square said organizers saw strong community interest in free family activities last year and wanted to expand programming this summer. She said the goal is to provide accessible opportunities for children and families to gather downtown while learning and creating together.

The Splash Labs series will feature weekly themed projects tied to topics such as birds and habitats, World Oceans Day, the Summer Solstice, geology, gardening and the Apollo 11 moon landing anniversary.

Activities throughout the summer include building and decorating birdhouses, creating ocean themed sensory tubes, making sun catchers, decorating mini flower pots and planting seeds, mixing homemade play dough, making Rice Krispie bars, painting rocks and building solar system models.

Lindenthal said registration is strongly encouraged because supplies are guaranteed only for registered participants. She explained that advance registration helps organizers plan for materials needed each week, especially for food based or craft intensive projects.

Main Street Square officials said the programs are free and open to the public.

Partners for the Storytime in the Square series include Who’s Toys, The Silver Lining Creamery and Theatre 605 Black Hills Playhouse.

Additional information and registration details are available through Main Street Square’s website and Facebook events page.