The Heart of Topeka Foundation will be kicking off their first major event with a Fitness Challenge on May 17. There will be fitness stations with fun activities such as Zumba, Twister, Hula hoops, belly dancing, challenges, trivia and much more.

For children, there will also be face painting, chalk art and henna tattoos.

The Bookmobile from the Topeka Shawnee County Public Library will also be at the event. On the same night as the Fitness Challenge, there will be some NHRA cars on display to start off the racing weekend at Heartland Park.

“It’s a great family night,” said Lisa Boyd, owner of the Merchant.

Some of the local businesses that are involved with the Heart of Topeka Foundation are The Merchant, Marion Lane Candles, Lupita’s, Blended, Personally Yours and Hazel Hill Chocolates.

The month of June is currently in the planning stages. July’s event will be with a ‘Hullaballoo’ carnival theme.

There will be a Cruise Night on May 12 from 5-10 p.m., and is sponsored by Cumulus Radio. The streets will be blocked off from 6th to 10th, and will also feature food venders like Indian tacos and funnel cakes.

“It will be one of the best nights to be downtown,” said Boyd.

The Heart Of Topeka Foundation was formed in March 2012 to help promote Downtown Topeka businesses. The Foundation’s mission is to nurture community values and offer a safe, enjoyable experience for individuals and families while shopping, dining and enjoying downtown. There will be fun activities planned once a month on the third Thursday.

For more information about upcoming events or to join the Heart of Topeka Foundation, please feel free to visit Heart of Topeka Foundation’s facebook page at: www.facebook.com/heartoftopekafoundation.