Children’s & Family Events

The Anasazi Free-Trappers Rendezvous isn’t just for adults — there’s a full slate of activities for kids and families. From games to the Candy Cannon, there’s plenty to keep young ones entertained and engaged in the rendezvous experience. Children’s events do not require a registration medallion unless otherwise noted.


Kids Games

What Is It?

Kids Games are held on the Main Road on Saturday from 12:00pm to 2:00pm. Children 12 and under can compete in a series of fun, hands-on events that test a variety of skills. The games include:

  • Barrel Fishing — Try your luck fishing from a barrel, but don’t get your line cut.
  • Lance Throwing — Hurl a lance at a moving target, mountain-man style.
  • Pan Toss — Toss a frying pan for accuracy.
  • Rubber Band Gun Shooting — Take aim with a rubber band gun and test your marksmanship.
  • Bean Bag Toss — A classic toss game for all ages.

Rules & Regulations

  • Ages: 12 and under.
  • Prizes: The top performer in each individual event will receive a prize.
  • Participate in all events: Children who participate in every event will be eligible for an additional prize, to be collected at Council Fire.
  • Supervision: Parents are responsible for their children at all times.
  • Cost: No additional fee — included with your camp registration or free for visitors.

How to Get Started

First-timer tips:

  • Just show up on the Main Road during game time! No sign-up required.
  • Encourage your kids to try every event — not only is it more fun, but participating in all of them makes them eligible for the special Council Fire prize.
  • Games are a great way for kids to make friends and get into the spirit of the rendezvous.

When: Saturday, 12:00pm–2:00pm on the Main Road


Candy Cannon

What Is It?

The Candy Cannon is a black powder signal-style cannon loaded with a small charge and filled with candy — usually tootsie rolls or similar wrapped sweets. When fired, the candy launches into the air and children scramble to collect as much as they can. The charge is small enough that it’s not generally loud enough to require covering your ears, so even little ones can enjoy the excitement without worry. It’s a highlight for every kid (and plenty of adults) at the rendezvous and a real memory-maker for young visitors.

The Candy Cannon is fired as part of Kids Games on Saturday, but it may also be fired at other times throughout the rendezvous. An announcement will always be made as the cannon is being prepared to fire, so keep your ears open!

Rules & Regulations

  • Ages: 12 and under for candy collection.
  • Safety: Children should not approach the cannon. Wait for the candy to land before collecting.
  • Parents should supervise children during the event.

How to Get Started

  • The Candy Cannon is part of Kids Games on the Main Road (12:00pm–2:00pm Saturday), so just be there and listen for the announcement that the cannon is being prepared to fire. If you hear the announcement at other times during the rendezvous, head toward the sound — you won’t want to miss it!

When: Saturday during Kids Games (12:00pm–2:00pm) on the Main Road, plus additional firings throughout the rendezvous (listen for the announcement)