FOLEY — Graham Creek Nature Preserve celebrated International Mud Day with one of the dirtiest events of the summer.

On a hot Saturday, families and children gathered at the park in Foley, where there was a large mud pit for children to jump and play in, complete with two slip 'n slides. The Foley Fire Department made an appearance, and Kona Ice served shaved ice to patrons.

International Mud Day is observed every year in late June, encouraging kids and families to get outside while teaching environmental awareness, such as how to prevent mudslides. Jody Moore, program and events manager for Graham Creek Nature Preserve, said they have been hosting events for the occasion for seven years and plan to expand it and add more educational opportunities in the future.

"It's so great to see all the kids just get muddy and just have so much fun," Moore said. "It's not normal. Parents don't normally just let the kids play in mud in the backyard, so it's something different. They get to come out and experience it as a family."