A Celebration in the Park was a big hit, in more ways than one, for everyone involved Saturday.

The 15th annual Community Living Day celebration at Douglas Park started off with a softball game involving Challenger Baseball and Special Olympics athletes, local media, Langley RCMP Supt. Derek Cooke, Langley politicians including MP Mark Warawa, MLA Mary Polak, City Mayor Peter Fassbender, school trustee Cecelia Reekie, Township Mayor Jack Froese and Township Councillor Grant Ward, among others.

The purpose of the day, according to the Langley Association for Community Living, is to "join together to honour the many gifts, talents, and abilities people with developmental disabilities bring to our communities."

Betty Anne Batt, who chaired the Langley Community Living Day Committee, said the day went "better than anticipated."

"We're always delighted with the weather, and we were appreciative of the support that came from all of the folks who came out to the baseball game," Batt said "It sends a statement about the value of having playing time together. It enhances the concept of a community baseball game."

The celebration included a contest in which Langley elementary school students looked through the lens of inclusiveness with the theme, 'We are better together.' The essay/poster/poetry contest focused on inclusiveness and acceptance.

The winners gathered on the Spirit Square stage to receive their awards, after the softball game wrapped up.

Batt said organizers ran out of food, which is a good indicator of attendance.

"There were many young families," Batt said. "A lot of toddlers were bouncing around the to music which is always great to see."

tlandreville@langleyadvance.com