Pop Quiz: You’re surrounded by dozens of school children with streaks of green, purple, yellow, and orange, and red in their hair. Where are you?

Answer: That’s easy for anyone who attended this year’s Fall Picnic. You’re in Old Speedway Meadow and the day is Sunday, Sept. 16.

Judging by the number of candy-colored heads roaming the scene, this year’s Fall Picnic was a smashing success.

The picnic drew 200-300 parents and kids who spent three hours talking, laughing, and munching on a sumptuous spread of potluck offerings. The children bounced inside the giant jump house and played favorite carnival games like “Fishing for Prizes,” “Balloon Darts,” and “Ring Toss on the Dolphin’s Head.”

Usually run by eighth graders, this year’s games were operated by sixth and seventh graders who covered for the many eighth graders off visiting high school open houses.

The picnic returned to its familiar spot this year, a narrow grassy strip known as Old Speedway Meadow, just off 41st Avenue in Golden Gate Park. Lisa and George Chao, who chaired the event for the second straight year, reworked the picnic layout, placing food tables at the far end and games along the middle stretch. Lisa said they wanted to contain the picnic area, making it easier for families to schmooze and keep an eye on their little ones. 

The most popular guest was the sun, a normally fickle fellow who showed up on time and stayed for most of the three hours.

A BIG THANK YOU goes to George and Lisa Chao for hosting a fabulous Fall Picnic, and to the 25 to 30 volunteers who lugged and set up tables, chairs, trash cans, coolers, food, balloons and more.