Scythian to Headline Third-Annual Catholic Family Festival

By Therese Bermpohl, Director, Office for Family Life

Call it a blowout Catholic Picnic. Call it a festival. Call it a chance to eat good food, listen to great music and enjoy the entertainment of talented local performers.

But no matter what you call it, don’t miss out on this opportunity to celebrate with Catholics from all over the Diocese of Arlington at the third-annual Catholic Family Festival on Saturday Sept. 24, 2011, from 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. at Bull Run Regional Park in Centreville, Va.

What does the Washington Post have to say about this year's Catholic Family Festival's headlining band? “Scythian’s enthusiasm is contagious, and shows seem to end with everyone dancing, jumping around or hoisting glasses.”

This festival promises enjoyment for the entire family. The kids will relish the free games including laser tag, a giant inflatable slide, a moon bounce and face-painting, as parents sample foods from around the globe while listening to the infectious sounds of popular local band, Scythian, of whom the Washington Post writes: “Scythian’s enthusiasm is contagious, and shows seem to end with everyone dancing, jumping around or hoisting glasses.”

Sports enthusiasts can enjoy an organized soccer tournament or play pick-up soccer, Frisbee and football, while shoppers peruse the many vendors and exhibitors who will be selling jewelry, art, and other crafts and collectibles.

Finally, don’t miss out on the opportunity to worship at a Holy Mass celebrated by our own Bishop Paul S. Loverde. The exhilarating Gospel choir from St. Joseph Parish, Alexandria, will sing during the Mass.

With free parking and entry (a donation of $5 per car is suggested) at the beautiful Bull Run Park, this promises to be a day of fun and free activities for the entire family to enjoy. Don’t miss out on the fun!

Things to remember:

Bring cash for food and vendors (there are no ATMs and only some vendors will accept  other forms of payment)

• Bring a chair or blanket and lots of sunscreen!
• No pets and no alcohol allowed

For more information on the festival visit our website, www.catholicfamilyfestival.org, or call (703) 841-2550

To learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact Anne at cff@arlingtondiocese.org

To learn more about vendor opportunities, contact Tom at cff@arlingtondiocese.org

To download a printable flyer, click here.