An estimated 3,000 people gathered on the grounds of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 32145 St. Joe Road in Dade City, for the fourth annual St. Joe Fall Festival. The fun family event, on Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featured numerous bounce houses, a petting zoo, pony rides, an obstacle course, live music, face painting and a pumpkin patch. Dozens of local vendors were lined up, selling various handmade wares, such as jewelry, wood-carved furniture, baked goods, homemade olive oils and locally grown produce. The festival also featured a beer garden for adults, as well as many diverse food options. Attendees had their choice to nibble on ethnic foods, such as Cajun, Polish and Ukrainian food, as well as American classics like barbecue ribs, pizza and desserts. Tickets could be purchased for $1, for a chance to win one of the two 50/50 drawings, or one of the nearly 70 gift baskets donated by local businesses and parishioners for the event. All proceeds go toward the upkeep of the church.
