HEWITT — Our Lady Queen of Peace is planning its first family festival to take place on Friday, June 7, through Sunday, June 9, 2013 at 1911 Union Valley Road, Hewitt. The focus is to make fun affordable for the youngest to the oldest in families.
The parishioners have joined forces with all Our Lady Queen of Peace ministries, local businesses, and service organizations to create three days of family-centered fun for everyone in the community. Designed to engage every generation from toddlers to seniors, the festival will offer an array of activities, games, ethnic foods, music, dancing and contests.
“We want to move from the expensive and impersonal carnival-type event to one that is affordable and interactive for all our families," said Fr. Michael Rodak, pastor of the church. "There is truly an activity to engage everyone, whether as a participant or an observer, We want to provide a venue where all families in the community, Catholic or not, could enjoy a day, an evening, or weekend doing things together.”
The committee of volunteers, led by Dan Janelli and John Trahan, has pulled together an exceptional list of attractions. After researching successful family festivals throughout the area, the committee is energized by the prospect of providing residents of West Milford something new and different that will bring families together for a memorable, engaging weekend event.
“Everything will be held in tents or indoors, so we’re ready to go, rain or shine,” said Janelli.
“There will be vendors and crafters, a soap-box derby, bake-off, pet show, petting zoo, pie-eating contest, flea market, and more,” adds Trahan. All are family-focused activities where every generation can have fun, he added.
“We invite families to get involved early and volunteer to assist with this extraordinary gathering,” said Rodak. “Even the planning is fun!”
Those wishing to reserve a booth, volunteer, or learn more should visit www.olqpnj.org or call 973-728-8162.