Kids and lemonade stands will be Whidbey treat Saturday

Lemons and water a recipe for learning business basics

Look for lemonade stands all around Whidbey Island this Saturday as local kids participate in Lemonade Day, a national program designed to introduced youth to business.

For the second year, the Economic Development Council organized the local program, teaching more than 70 kids, ages 8-12, the basics of business from concept to cashing out.

“Part of the program is walking the kids through the ins and outs of running a lemonade stand, including location, advertising, health, customer service and pricing,” program director Sami Postma said.

Thursday, the public is invited to a taste test the lemon and water concoctions at Coupeville Rec Hall. The winner gets the coveted “Best Tasting Lemonade!” ribbon to hang on their stand.

On Saturday, each new young entrepreneur will be their own boss. They decorate their own stand, some which are supported by local businesses that host the lemonade stands in high-traffic areas.

Kids keep the money they make, with encouragement to follow the motto: “Save Some, Spend Some, and Donate Some,” Postma said.

Information about Lemonade Day: www.lemonadeday.org/whidbey#stand-locations