St. Francis of Assisi Family Festival Begins Thursday

Amusement park rides, food and classic cars will all converge on the grounds of St. Francis of Assisi Church this weekend for this year's Family Festival.

The event kicks off at 6 p.m. Thursday with the Classic Car Cruise-In, which will feature 30 to 40 classic cars that belong to enthusiasts from across the region and some who are members of the church. While attendees view the cars, they can also enjoy festival favorites like cavatelli with meatballs or fried dough.

"It really acts like a family festival," event co-chair Dave Dudash said. "There's something for all ages and you can feel safe and secure walking around. You socialize with people you see and have some nice entertainment."

Festival hours are 6 to 11 p.m. on Thursday; 6 p.m. to midnight on Friday; 4 p.m. to midnight on Saturday; and 1 to 9 p.m. on Sunday. View the event's Facebook page for more information and the complete entertainment schedule.

People can enjoy about a dozen amusement rides, including a ferris wheel. A casino will be held inside the church, while the entertainment happens under an 80-by-100-foot tent.

The festival has been going on for more than 25 years. About 10,000 to 15,000 people attend over the course of a weekend, Dudash said. Nearly 300 volunteers help put it on during the weekend.
 
Dudash said he is a bit concerned for people coming in from Chester Township because of construction on Mayfield Road, just east of the church. He said the best parking is available west of the church and across from it in lots owned by Hillcrest Hospital.

"At this point, I think people know alternate routes," he said. "Either use Old Mill Road or Wilson Mills."