Eastmoor United Methodist Church was a social hub for girl scouts Friday, as 35 scouts from Marion County and beyond gathered for the sixth annual Cookie Kickoff.

The girls came from Marion, Peabody, Hillsboro, Moundridge, Hesston, and Herington to enjoy the event, which had an under the sea theme.

An underwater theme was chosen because this year’s cookie mascot was a narwhal, said Brenda Soyez, Marion troop leader and cookie manager.

According to her, having the kickoff is a good way to get the scouts excited to sell cookies.

“The kids have a good time,” she said. “They get to do crafts, and eat cookies and ice cream.”

Activities included coloring pages, stained glass dream catchers, and sand art necklaces.

Sales started Saturday and run until March 17, and cookies will be available at Carlson’s on Saturdays.