FARMINGTON – A Kids Night Out today will allow parents to go Christmas shopping or give them time to spend together.

The Future Business Leaders of America at Mt. Blue High School will keep the youngsters entertained while they raise money to attend a spring convention.

Parents are welcome to leave children who are in grades kindergarten to third from 6 to 9 p.m. today at Mt. Blue High School for only $5, advisor Priscilla Connor said Friday.

The FBLA members have plans to keep the youngsters well-entertained, she said. A variety of gym activities including soccer, basketball, face painting, movies, board games and making Christmas crafts have all been planned by the Mt. Blue High group. Beverages and healthy snacks will be offered.

“About 90 children attended last year, but this year we have expanded it to include all SAD schools with grades K-3,” Connor said. “The kids have fun with their endless supply of stamina.”

Parent Beckie Souther heard about the program from Connor on Friday while Souther was working at the Franklin Savings Bank branch at Mt. Blue High School. She decided to bring her two youngsters.

“I’ll probably do some Christmas shopping, but mostly I’m bringing them so they can have some fun away from home, playing with other children,” she said.

While providing a public service, the FBLA also does this as a fund raiser. It’s one of the their biggest activities, Connor said. Money raised will go toward the 23 members’ attendance at the spring convention in Portland in March. The students have to pay the $2,000 bill for them all to attend.