Esquimalt’s Lyn Jackson is in the business of making people laugh.

With technicolour dresses, curly locks and a big red smile, Jackson has entertained children as Sparkle the Clown for more than 20 years.

“I think I am a clown in my soul,” said Jackson, who has a background in early childhood education and recreational therapy.

“I (started doing) it as an opportunity to do motivational education for children. I like to encourage people to lighten up without dieting.”

Jackson will be joined by more than 20 performers, including her musical clown partner Sweezie, at the 11th annual Clownfest at Galey Farms in Saanich. Entertainment will also feature magician Paul Kilshaw, The Great Odini as MC and Fizzlepop the Clown. Face painting, juggling workshops, hay rides and a costume contest round out the event, and kids are encouraged to either come dressed up or borrow a costume when they get there.

“Clownfest is basically an opportunity to get together and have a good time,” said Jackson. “I just don’t think there’s enough free family events that people can come out and just have fun. Especially right now with the tough economic times, it’s something that you can take your family to that won’t cost you a lot of money.”

Clownfest is a fundraiser for Fountains of Light, a non-profit organization that runs a community school for orphans in Lusaka, Zambia.

The Victoria Shrine Club will be running the concession, with all food and drink proceeds going to Fountains of Light.

The event also helps kick off Galey’s corn maze season and will see the opening of the new circus exhibit on the railway.

kschoenit@oakbaynews.com

A laugh a minute

• What: 11th annual Clownfest

• Where: Galey Farms, 4150 Blenkinsop Rd.

• When: Sunday, July 12, noon until 4 p.m.

• Who’s being helped: Fountains of Light, a non-profit organization that operates a school for orphans in Zambia.