By AMY JONES / Associate Editor

HOOVER — Hoover residents will have an array of fun activities during the city’s Celebrate Hoover Day May 5.

This year, the event, at Hoover’s Veterans Park, will add pony rides and a petting zoo in addition to a car show, kids zone with inflatables, train rides, a Birmingham Zoo animal exhibit, a McWane Science Center interactive area, craft areas, UAB soccer demonstrations, appearances by Dora and Diego of “Dora the Explorer” fame and the Backyardigans.

The Jefferson State Culinary and Hospitality Institute will also give out free ice cream and apple pie.

More than 100 local businesses will have booths on display, and several Hoover City School groups as well as the Lard Bucket Bluegrass Band will provide live entertainment.

Hoover Mayor Gary Ivey said Celebrate Hoover Day focuses on families.

“Celebrate Hoover Day is a great way to bring our community together,” Ivey said. “It’s a day you can unite with family and friends in a fun, safe environment and enjoy all the free activities featured at the event.”

The event will be from 1:30-5:30 p.m. Parking will be at Spain Park High School, with shuttles running to the park entrance throughout the day.