Each year, Nativity of Our Savior Church holds its annual Nativity Fest – a fun filled weekend meant to bring the community together by way of delicious food, games, rides and entertainment.
This evening marked the official start to the church's 49th festival, boasting live music and activities aplenty, including but not limited to: BINGO, casino games, kid friendly attractions, a beer garden, and a used book sale. It wasn't long after 6pm that hundreds of patrons began pouring into the fair, located just behind Nativity of Our Savior on Willowcreek Road.
The ever familiar sounds of carnival tunes floated into the air as visitors disbursed between food vendors, games and whimsical rides that shot them high into the air, or around and around in dizzying circles.
Derrick and Kelli Moss brought their daughter Brianna to participate in the festivities.
"She loves the Ferris Wheel," Derrick said, smiling. "I think she could ride it all night if we didn't drag her away. We always have a good time when we come here. They put on a good festival."
A bit farther on from the colorful mechanical attractions of the larger yard, families meandered down a long row of small eateries, leading to a family tent where parents and kids sat and enjoyed their cobbed corn, french fries and elephant ears while listening to local talents perform.
Following last year's tradition, crowds were invited to watch not just one, but two musical acts. On this particular evening, Dan Reisen and Paige graced the stage, followed later by Allen Wronko. Over the course of the four-day fest, fairgoers will be treated to performances by Zodiac, Bravo Johnny, The Difference, and Nawty among others.
Come Sunday, hours to the fest will be extended to include the early afternoon, opening at 12 noon and closing at 10pm.
"On Sunday, right after church, the polka band [Take Five] will play. It's something special this year that we didn't have at last year's fest. Many people requested it and we're happy to have them here," said Janet Guernsey, a member of the church.
And it wouldn't be a fair without a Grand Prize raffle, worth $10,000 to the lucky winner! Attend every day, but especially Sunday, when the winner of the raffle will be announced at 9pm. Whether looking to win some dough, or simply enjoy the fair's summer-time ambiance, Nativity of Our Savior Church's annual festival will not disappoint.
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For more information including hours for Nativity Fest and a schedule of events, please visit: http://www.nativityofoursavior.org/