After running annually for decades, the St. Patrick Festival — like practically everything else — went on hiatus two years ago as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it was back this year with a full line-up of events.
Here’s a look back at how the weekend unfolded at the church, which is located at the corner of 5 Mile Rd. and Parnell Ave.
The church kicked things off with a 5K run/walk. Previously known as the Festival 5K, it was rechristened Johnny’s Run this year in honor of parishioner Johnny Agar. Born with cerebral palsy, Agar walked his first mile as part of the 5K run in 2013. This year, he co-chaired the event which also included an Impossible Mile Challenge in which participants ran for a mile while wearing a backpack that weighed 10% of their total body weight.
Along with the run, the church held a euchre tournament and The Adams Family provided live music on Friday night.
The highlight of Saturday was the annual Parish Festival Auction which included both a silent auction and live bidding. Afterward, Tipsy & The Kickstands entertained the crowd with music while the beer tent and food booth remained open until midnight.
One departure from previous festivals was the absence of a Las Vegas tent with card games. Although originally advertised, the parish said the activity was cancelled “due to unforeseen circumstances.”
Sunday was family-fun day at the festival, with bouncy slides…
…kids games…
…and a petting zoo. The animals — which included an alpaca, goats, bunnies, a miniature horse and more — all hailed from homes of members of the rural church community.
Adults could play a game of their own in the bingo tent.
And everyone could enjoy the display of classic cars…
…and tractors.
There was more live music to be enjoyed on Sunday, with the Stan Mroz Jr Band playing a variety of favorite polka tunes.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a St. Patrick Festival without their famous chicken dinner which is cooked all morning and afternoon onsite.
Those who wanted to get out of the heat could duck into the newly air-conditioned church building.
The quilt show also provided visitors a chance to look inside the historic building which dates to 1878.
While there is no official word on attendance, the parking lots were full as plenty of people seemed eager to enjoy what one parishioner has described as their “favorite weekend of the year.”
Thanks for the write up.