Don’t forget to mark your calendar for Aug. 9. It promises to be a “Glorious” day as The FEST marks its 20th year with a special event filled with faith, hope and family fun.
Father Bob Stec, pastor of St. Ambrose Parish in Brunswick and FEST founder, said even the coronavirus pandemic couldn’t stop The FEST 2020. And the best thing about this year’s event is everybody – from anywhere in the world -- can attend from the comfort of their homes, he added.
“You can all join in and invite everyone you know because TheFEST@home is restructured with the help of the latest technology,” Father Stec said.
The FEST core team has been working for months to redesign the event and provide all the popular FEST features in a new, online format, said Jake Bihari, a core team member. Preliminary events begin at 3 p.m., followed with performances by national and local Christian musicians.
Nine bands are lined up to offer special FEST performances this year. Bihari said each group is preparing a special performance for TheFEST@home.
The schedule is being finalized, but plans call for local artists and We are Messengers to perform during the 3-4 p.m. opening hour. We are Messengers focuses on spreading the message of God’s love. The group also performed live at the 2018 FEST.
During the 4-5 p.m. hour, Jordan Feliz and Colton Dixon will perform. Feliz is back after performing at the 2019 FEST. Dixon, who performed at The FEST in 2014, said he believes his voice is a gift from God that he uses to share the Lord’s message.
Building 429 and Matt Maher will perform during the 5-6 p.m. time slot. Building 429 performed at The FEST in 2015. Maher, a popular Christian entertainer an FEST favorite, has performed six times at The FEST: 2008, 2010, 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2019. This year marks his seventh time as part of the entertainment lineup.
Danny Gokey and Matthew West will entertain during the 6-7 p.m. hour. This is the first time Gokey, the American Idol Season 8 winner, is performing at The FEST. West was on The FEST stage twice previously, in 2009 and 2016.
Taking the stage during the 7-8 p.m. hour will be for King & Country and Casting Crowns. This will be the third time for King & Country has performed for the event. They were here in 2013, 2014 and 2017. Casting Crowns is also making their third FEST appearance after entertaining during the 2013 and 2019 events.
TheFEST@home organizers also are reminding everyone to check the website, thefest.us, for the latest information on entertainment and other FEST features. That’s also where people can sign up for raffle prizes, kid’s craft kits and more. The website includes a countdown clock for those interested in knowing exactly how much time is left before the event kicks off.
Craft and activities kits for children are available for those who sign up in advance. Supplies are limited. The kits include a custom coloring book, sunflower seeds, a visor children can decorate, a “happy shaker” they can fill with happy thoughts, dreams and prayers, they can send Christmas cards to the military, a prayer pinwheel, recycle an old FEST T-shirt into a reusable bag and more.
Those who registered for a kit can pick it up at one of several locations July 31, Aug 2, 3 or 4. Click here for details.
The popular Marc’s Mom’s Relaxation Station will be part of TheFEST@home also. Click here for details. There will be how-to videos and more available on FEST day. Moms also can sign up for a chance to win various prizes and baskets. And three people will win a $500 Marc’s shopping spree.
Dads will also have their special place at TheFEST@home. The Man Cave @ The FEST will have speakers, games, activities and more on Aug. 9. There also will be prizes for the men. Click here to sign up for Man Cave activities and prizes.
The FEST raffle is also back this year, with a variety of prizes, including Universal Windows Direct Dollars that can be used for windows, doors, roofing, gutter protection, attic insulation or siding and 20 cash prizes. Only 2,500 tickets will be sold and purchasers must be 18 or older. Suggested donation is $100. The drawing will take place at 7:45 p.m.
TheFEST@home will conclude with a livestreamed, outdoor Mass (weather permitting) and fireworks display.
For more information on TheFEST@home, to register for a craft kid, giveaways, purchase raffle tickets or signup for the weekly newsletter, visit thefest.us.