The FEST moves west to ForeFront Field with a day of faith, family and fun

Mark your calendar: The FEST will take place noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 15. This year’s theme is “Blessed!”

As the daylong celebration of faith, family and fun marks its 26thanniversary, Father Bob Stec, pastor of St. Ambrose Parish in Brunswick and founder of The FEST, said there will be many changes, including a new location and a shift from Sunday to Saturday.

The FEST also is moving from its longtime home at the Center for Pastoral Leadership in Wickliffe to ForeFront Field, the home of the Lake Erie Crushers baseball team. The address is 2009 Baseball Blvd., Avon.

The FEST also is moving from its longtime home at the Center for Pastoral Leadership in Wickliffe to ForeFront Field, the home of the Lake Erie Crushers baseball team. The address is 2009 Baseball Blvd., Avon.

For the first time, there will be a $10 admission fee. Children 2 and younger are admitted free. Purchase tickets here. Scholarship opportunities – click here for a link – are available for those who need help to cover admission costs.

“The new ticketing policy will help manage attendance and create a safe, welcoming experience for those attending the event,” said Father Stec.

Many of the popular features will be back, including well-known Christian musicians, entertainment, food, opportunities for prayer, adoration and confession, as well as the closing Mass celebrated by Bishop Edward Malesic at 8 p.m. on the stage on the baseball field. Steve Angrisano will provide music. View a video about the Mass here.

American Fireworks will present a fireworks show after Mass.

Those coming only for Mass and the fireworks can enter the stadium for free starting at 7 p.m., but they must have a ticket. Register here for Mass tickets by 8 a.m. Aug. 15.

Father Stec said the paid tickets grant access to the entire event, including both the stadium seating and field areas. All seating is first-come, first-served. Attendees also may also leave and re-enter the stadium throughout the day. Both paid and free parking is available. Limited on-site parking passes can be purchased with FEST admission tickets. Those who already purchased their tickets can call the Crushers at 440-934-3636 to add a parking pass. Handicap parking will be available with courtesy carts. Click here to learn more about parking options.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase. ForeFront Field is a cashless venue, so credit/debit cards, Google Pay and Apple Pay can be used for purchases. Learn more about refreshment options here. No outside food or beverages are permitted, but attendees can bring a refillable water bottle to fill at on-site fountains.

Click here to review frequently asked questions about The FEST. More information about the event can be found here.