MISSOULA, Mont. — Princesses and superheroes spent time with children in Missoula at the annual Fairytale and Superhero Festival.

The event brought in performers, crafts, face painting and fire trucks from Missoula Fire, giving families several ways to take part. Organizers said the festival has been going on for more than 15 years.

Rose Kubler, co-owner of Your Fairy Godmothers, who supplied the performers, said moments at the festival can leave a lasting impact.

“There was this little special needs child who seemed to be quite shy. For whatever reason, she saw Batman and just broke into a full run and grabbed him and hugged him. It was pretty special for that man as well as for that kiddo,” said Kubler.

Performers said seeing children connect with their favorite characters kept them coming back to the event.

“I just love meeting everyone. I love seeing the kids faces when they meet their favorite person in real life for the first time. Most of these kids have seen our movies or have heard of our stories from their parents. But getting to meet a real princesses superhero in the flesh is always so special,” said one of the performers.