In just a few days, The FEST will return for a 21st year with a full day of faith, family and fun.
Gates open 10 a.m. at the event’s new location: the 132-acre Cleveland Metroparks’ Brookside Reservation, 3900 John Nagy Blvd., Cleveland. Tickets, at $10, are required for all attendees age 6 and older. Children 5 and younger are free. Tickets can be purchased online at theFest.us.
Barons Bus will provide shuttles from off-site parking to the FEST grounds throughout the day.
“‘Take Courage’ is the theme for The FEST 2021,” said Father Bob Stec, event organizer and pastor of St. Ambrose Parish in Brunswick. “It’s a reminder that God is with us on the journey and as we walk with the Lord and each other, we will find the strength and hope we need to walk into a bright and hopeful future,” he said, referring to the difficult past, pandemic-affected months.
“Everything is a little different this year, including The FEST,” Father Stec said.
As always, there will be something for FEST attendees of all ages.
Music will be provided throughout the day on the stage, beginning with Joe Melendrez at noon. He will debut five new tracks before transitioning to emcee duties. National Christian groups performing will include for King and Country as headliner, along with Danny Gokey, Tauren Wells and We are Messengers. Just this week Chandler and Maria Letner joined the local entertainment lineup.
There will be crafts and activities for kids, inflatables, the Colgate Dental Bus, a play area and kid-friendly entertainment.
Teens can enjoy an Adventure Zone with gaga ball pits, 9 square, corn hole, washer toss, ladder golf and KanJam, a challenge course, inflatable slide, Education Village showcasing Catholic education and scholarship tents.
The Marc’s Moms’ Relaxation Station with chances to win prizes, Man Cave with games, speakers and prize entries, a Family Blessings Tent and vendors who are family-values based.
There also will be opportunities for praying the rosary each hour, receiving a brown scapular, Adoration, confession, family blessings and the Peter’s Shadow Prayer Tent.
Highlight of the day will be the closing Mass at about 8:15 p.m., celebrated by Bishop Edward Malesic. All are invited to the Mass; there is no ticket needed and no admission fee.
Local entertainment will include the St. Martin de Porres High School Drumline, Hispanic dancers, Ali Marino fitness class, stilt walkers and Jammin’ Jumpers.
The first 2,500 guests will receive a free lunch, courtesy of Marc’s that includes a sub sandwich, chips and a bottle of water.
Marc’s, The FEST presenting sponsor, will offer more than $30,000 in giveaways and prizes, including gas grills, washer/dryer, gift cards and more.
The FEST raffle will feature 21 prizes for the event’s 21st year. Tickets are $100 each and can be purchased online in advance or at the event. Cash prizes ranging from $250 to the $15,000 grand prize will be awarded at 7:45 p.m. and online at theFEST.us. Winner need not be present to win.
Hungry FEST attendees can purchase a variety of healthy foods, beverages and snacks throughout the day. Prices begin at $1, with most items costing one or two tickets. Tickets can be purchased for $1 each. There will be hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, brats, chips, fruit, subs and wraps, mini snack packs, fries, kettle corn, cinnamon roasted nuts, funnel cakes, ice cream sandwiches and more.
Father Stec said there will be a surprise finale with music and a celebration of light.
For those who prefer to “attend” The FEST from the comfort of their homes, the event will be livestreamed at theFEST.us from noon to 10 p.m.
Click here for complete details about The FEST, including the schedule.
And mark your calendar for Aug. 7, 2022, the date for next year’s FEST.
