Fall Fest

Two saints at the craft table

If you can’t beat them - join them… Part of the allure of Halloween is dressing up and getting lots of candy; thus, in recent years some Christian churches have started having fall events at their parishes that incorporate costumes and candy.  For example, at my home parish we have what we call “Fall Fest Celebration.” For this event we ask the children (and adults) to dress up as their favorite saint.  This is an opportunity for families to do some research on saints and to celebrate their Catholic Heritage by wearing a costume.



Saint Helena

It’s an event that my nephew and I started participating just last year.  Usually he will come up with a costume and then we look to see if there’s a patron saint for it.  For example, last year he was a police officer so we found in our research that Saint Michael the Archangel is the defender of Israel and the leader of angels and therefore the patron saint for police officers.  This year, he’s a Disney pirate so we found out that Saint Nicolas the Wonderworker is the patron saint of sailors he also happens to be Santa Claus which my nephew found rather amusing.  I decided to join in the fun and became Saint Helena of Constantinople for the night.

Prehistoric Pets

Prince Charming Bull Frog

Giant Tortoise

The festivity was loads of fun!  We had a show from Prehistoric Pets with all types of creepy crawlers like snakes, lizards and more cold-blooded creatures! We also got see many saints walking around even though my pictures didn't capture them. Then the kids got to go to various stations and play games or sit at tables and do crafts.  Snacks and beverages were served and my nephew got a lot of candy throughout the night.  It was a spectacular night – even though I am suffering from a terrible cold- we got to bond and he gets to see how our faith is such a neat celebration year round!

 Saint Nicolas the Wondererworker Carrying the Python