Cultures will collide and celebrate their heritages at the Italian-Irish Festival on Saturday, March 19 at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Hattiesburg.
There’s lots of fun to be had by everyone as the agenda for the day is packed. This event is free with a mass beginning at 4:00 p.m., and the festival following from 5:00 to 10:30 p.m.
There are lots of games planned for the little ones, and some of the most delicious foods found in the Pine Belt will be available for purchase. There will be the traditional Irish stew, spaghetti and meatballs, sausage dogs, cotton candy, a variety of spirits and desserts. On top of good food, there will also be good music, a silent auction, and much more.
The St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church begins planning for the annual festival in September and oversees all the fun activities for guests and visitors. The festival is based on the premise of celebrating both cultures and these important individuals that were an integral part of the faith.
“Our goal is to recognize both St. Patrick and St. Joseph by providing fun and fellowship for the church community. Our mission is to continue to build a strong fellowship in the church community by involving as many parishioners in the festival as possible,” according to the foundation of the St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church.
The primary goal of the festival is to unite the city and parishioners so they can enjoy good company, good food, and good times.
“We serve the parish and community at large. Volunteers are the life blood of this festival and are always welcome,” the statement continued.
There will lots of fun games featured for the kids. There will also be an art show featuring the work of some of the most talented artists in the Pine Belt.
Madewood Street Music and will lift your spirits as the community comes together for a grand time. So bring your family and friends to enjoy the fun as the heritage of St. Patrick and St. John and the Irish and Italian cultures are honored and celebrated.
“The Irish-Italian Festival is looking for items to be donated for the Silent Auction,” Amanda Daho-Habeeb said. “If anyone has a special talent, such as painting, woodworking, furniture making, stained glass crafting, jewelry making, or other craft items that you would be willing to donate, please feel free to drop your items off at the church office at St. Thomas at your convenience with your name and contact information and retail value of the item donated.
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