By Vanessa Wu

Staff Writer

  On May 18, Vincent Lugo Park held a Play Day for celebrating the La Laguna Playground from 11 a.m to 2 p.m. The day was filled with entertainment, food, and games. Families from the San Gabriel Valley community came together and bonded.

  The La Laguna Playground was built in 1965 on the last piece of undeveloped land in Vincent Lugo Park. Benjamin Dominguez was the creator and artist behind the famous structures of Ozzie the Octopus, Minnie the Whale, Stella the Starfish, Dot the Lagoon, and Flipper, Speedy, and Peanut, three dolphins.  

  “I can not believe this playground is still here after 54 years,” stated San Gabriel resident Felix Hernandez. “I took my first kid here almost 10 years ago and [here] I am coming back with my second kid to create new memories.”

  The event started off with an introduction of the La Laguna Playground and the history behind it. The playground is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, an official list of the nation’s historic places worthy of preservation.

  “My mom used to take me here every weekend when I was little,” stated 13 year old Kristen Ka. “Taking my younger brother here is one of my favorite things to do because it reminds me of when I was younger.

  Three years ago, Vincent Lugo Park was under renovation and the playground at the front of the park was removed. However, the La Laguna Playground stayed there because it is known as one of San Gabriel’s historic places. San Gabriel’s Play Day was hosted by the San Gabriel City Government and the event was created to celebrate Benjamin Dominguez and his creation of 14 characters.

  “This event gives my kids an opportunity to play with other kids in the community,” stated resident of  San Gabriel Liz Marie. “I am glad we are able to come together and glad that our community has an event like this.”

  This year is the 54th anniversary of the La Laguna Playground and many families came out to celebrate a the event. Balloon artists made different balloon animals for the kids and parents sat around and talked.

  Over 54 years, this was the first year San Gabriel City Government hosted an event for the playground celebrating Benjamin Dominguez’s creations.

  “The playground has always been a more interactive one for me as a child. I think it embodies our San Gabriel culture and provides a fun escape for little kids to crawl and climb.” stated senior Victoria Sam. “I have never been to a park that sparks so much imagination in the minds of children.”