Suffolk residents enjoyed a collaboration between Lowe’s and Suffolk Rocks on Saturday.

A rock painting session was held outside of the Lowe’s Home Improvement store on North Main Street on Saturday. Families gathered at tables of art supplies — with fans to fight the heat — and painted rocks for the Suffolk Rocks community phenomenon.

“The premise of Suffolk Rocks is spreading joy, and that aligns with the core values of our business,” said Lowe’s store manager Steve Poole.

Poole and his staff provided gallons of paint, numerous markers and more than 400 pounds of smooth rocks ideal for painting. Parents and children will then hide these rocks around the city for others to find and post on the Suffolk Rocks Facebook group.

“Kids and grandparents are having a blast,” said Suffolk Rocks founder Kendra Ruga. “It’s awesome.”

Suffolk firefighters parked Engine Two by the tables for kids to climb up and get a closer look. A DJ played music as the painters worked on their rocks. Chick-fil-A employees brought their cow mascot for the festivities.

“We want to be here and participate in painting the rocks,” said Chick-fil-A marketing associate Evelyn Oliver. “I’m really thrilled to be here.”

The Suffolk Rocks Facebook group has more than 9,000 members as of Saturday.

Suffolk residents Nick and Kristin Lukeman hide rocks and look for new ones with their children Kensley and Isla several times per week. The family painted some of their rocks in patriotic colors on Saturday, while 5-year-old Kensley covered hers in hearts.

“Hearts are her favorite,” Nick Lukeman said.

Kristin said these rock searches are great for exercise and getting out of the house. She also enjoyed the thought of improving someone else’s day.

“I like the idea of leaving something for an unsuspecting stranger to stumble upon and make their day,” she said.