By Kayce Patton
Felix the Fox, Noblesville Parks and Recreation’s new mascot, will be making appearances with the department’s staff beginning this summer.
The mascot was unveiled at the Mayor’s Luncheon for the Arts and Parks in May.
Following the unveiling, parks staff held a Facebook-naming contest to come up with the name, ensuring the community had some participation on his identity.
Noblesville Parks Director Brandon Bennett said Cabela’s is the official outfitter for Felix and his wardrobe, providing all the equipment he appears in when out in public.
Bennett said Felix the Fox was chosen because he fits in with Fox Prairie Golf Course and the persona of the community.
Bennett also said that the fox is less threatening than other animals may be to younger children.
“We wanted something that looked friendly and also represented our department,” he said. “Felix will be at various events throughout the community as well as representing at different programs that we offer.”
Using Felix as a mascot is meant to bring a new dimension to the parks and rec programming and give more of a personality within the community. Bennett said the staff wanted to add a mascot because their job is fun, and they thought this would enhance what they already offer and help expand their brand.
Bennett said the hope is that “people recognize him and thus equate him to Noblesville Parks and Recreation and help increase our presence in the community.”
Everyone from the director to the intern will wear the costume, and any staff member available may have the opportunity to become Felix.
Bennett said Felix may be found at many different events in the community. It may be at an event put on by the department, or Felix could be there as a vendor to promote city and parks and rec programs.
Events include the Noblesville Summer Concert Series events at 7 p.m. July 21 and 28 at Forest Park, Noblesville Schools’ Back to School Bash from 5 to 8 p.m. July 29, and various other community events.
