Big crowd enjoys Menifee Spring Fest at new city park

Children race into a field of plastic eggs during one of the egg hunts at Saturday's Menifee Spring Fest at Mayfield Park. Menifee 24/7 photos: Doug Spoon

Residents of all ages enjoyed Menifee's newest park and children laughed as they ran through a field of plastic eggs Saturday at the city's annual Spring Fest.

The day began with a ceremony for the grand opening of Mayfield Park, a 2.5-acre park built by developer Pacific Communities to serve residents of the Cottonwood community. A large crowd gathered at the park, located south of Newport Road and bordering Evans Road, as children tried out the new playground, enjoyed bounce houses and had photos taken with the Spring Bunny.

Meanwhile, parents and children visited the many vendor booths, which showcased local businesses and provided games for the little ones. Egg hunts for several age groups were held throughout the morning.

"One of the promises we made is that as we build communities, we build parks, because our communities are filled with children, right?" Mayor Neil Winter said during the dedication of the new park. "Children need a place to play, a place to go, a place to have fun and grow."

Matt Liesemeyer, the Menifee City Council member whose district includes this area, also welcomed guests to the park.

"I know that many people in this community have been waiting for this park a long time," Liesemeyer said. "Well, the wait is over. Thanks to Pacific Communities and Nelson Chung and the City's Community Services Department, led by Jonathan Nicks, we are finally opening a new park."

Liesemeyer also thanked members of the City's Parks, Recreation and Trails Commission in attendance: Rick Croy, Tom Giedroyce, Marty Rosen and Bill Zimmerman.

Zimmerman announced to guests the unveiling of a plaque near a newly planted oak tree in the park in honor of longtime resident and community volunteer Mike Castillejos, who passed away Jan. 14.

"Mike was a very welcoming person, and if it was a good thing for the city, Mike was for it," Zimmerman said. "We're all fortunate to have people in our lives, who if we're lucky, are like Mike and lead by example. He showed us how to be generous, good-natured, professional and fun, all at the same time."

In addition to the Cottonwood Community, Mayfield Park serves two 55+ communities built by Pacific Communities in the area: Pacific Orchid and Primrose.

City officials gather around the entrance to the new Mayfield Park after the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Children enjoyed the safe, expansive playground area during Saturday's Menifee Spring Fest.

Family members of the late Mike Castillejos join city officials at the plaque (inset) honoring the longtime resident.

One of the young visitors at Menifee Spring Fest pets a goat relaxing at one of the vendor booths.