St. Anthony's Parish  Your English speaking Roman catholic parish in Kraineem   

Home | Communication | news.htm

- News - News - News- News - News - News - News - News - News - News - News -

Printable version     

St Anthony’s Summer Fayre 2005

Kraineem (19 May 2005)

By Yvonne Nielsen, Co-Chair of the Parish Fayre Committee

It’s that time of year again when our thoughts turn to long summer days, barbecues in the garden, and the much longed for summer holidays are approaching. The forerunner to all these lovely times ahead is St Anthony’s annual Summer Fayre which this year will be held on Sunday June 12, with everything kicking off at 12.45pm.

First, for those of you who have joined our parish in the past year, a little HISTORY about the Fayre. St Anthony’s Summer Fayre has been an annual international
fixture for the Brussels ex-pat community for over 20 years. It is really the first major event to launch the summer season. The date of the Fayre is also significant, as it is always held on the Sunday closest to the feast day - June 13 - of our patron St Anthony.

The Fayre is also the major fund-raising event of the year for St Anthony’s. Last year, we made just over EUR 25,000, an amazing figure. The profit from the Fayre almost completely meets the first of our twice-yearly mortgage payments. Therefore, you can see how important it is for the Fayre to be a success and to date we have been very blessed.

On a community level the Fayre allows all our parishioners a chance to catch up with each other. So often we are all in a rush to get away after mass and don’t get a chance to have a chat with everyone we would like. More than this the Fayre gives all our parishioners the opportunity to help the parish by volunteering their services on one of the many stalls or games. And we desperately need as many volunteers as possible. One hour of your time can make such a difference and is very much appreciated by all. Perhaps, you may simply want to support the Fayre by attending the event, partaking and participating in all the fun and incredible entertainment that the day has to offer. 

Now you know the background, let’s get down to what’s on offer and why it’s an event not to be missed. The Fayre offers a cornucopia of non-stop entertainment, games and interesting stalls. Let’s start with the FOOD STALLS. I like to think we offer our parishioners and visitors a ‘Foodies’ delight. Who needs Michelin Star Restaurants when you can eat like a king in the most convivial of surroundings? This is my suggested Menu:

St Anthony’s Summer Fayre Menu

Starters
Wild Irish Smoked Salmon from Co. Mayo
Vegetarian Delicacies
African Delights

Main Courses
Texas Chili
Freshly Barbecued Beef Burgers & Hot Dogs
Vegetarian Dishes
Exotic African Food

Desserts
Homemade Cakes & Sweets
Sensational Strawberry Teas

All washed down with a delicious Irish Coffee

All of course accompanied by a beverage of your choice. Personally, I like to sample all the delicacies on offer!

Between courses, it is great for the digestion to take gentle strolls and visit the various stalls and games. The BOOK STALL: you never know what little gem you might find there, from a Keep Fit Book to a Connoisseurs Guide to Wine. For the little ones you might find that ‘Winnie the Pooh’ Book you’ve been looking for or maybe, if it’s not too old hat, a Famous Five Book or Secret Seven Book, or for the very lucky few, a Harry Potter Book. Whatever your taste in reading material there will be something to please.

The CLOTHES STALL is also a much-visited stall full of interesting little numbers. Perhaps you’ll find that little black dress, you’ve always wanted or that silk tie by that designer you always adored! The world of fashion is at your fingertips.

The BRIC A BRAC or “White Elephant” Stall as some may know it, offers an eclectic mix of Objects d’Art. Perhaps you will find that seminal piece of art which will add the finishing touches to your sitting room or simply find a really useful object.

The BOTTLE STALL offers many hidden delights. Why not try your luck, perhaps you will win a fine bottle of Scottish Malt Whisky or a bottle of Tomato Ketchup - both have their uses! The surprise is all part of the fun.

For our very special YOUNGER PARISHIONERS and visitors we have pony and donkey rides. For the very energetic there is the wonderful Bouncy Castle where you can jump up and down to your hearts delight. You can visit the Farm Corner and see the animals up close. We have many games to entertain ‘Soak the Bloke’ and Football, to mention but two. Face painting is on offer for all who wish to become a lion or monkey for the day.

For all you thirsty people the BAR supplies draught Guinness, various beers, wine and soft drinks and is on tap all afternoon from 12.45pm to 7pm.

As usual there will be continuous ENTERTAINMENT onstage all afternoon, from our faithful Mr. John and Dr Rob taking us through 'Potverdekke it's great to be a Belgian' and other catchy numbers, dancers (some very small) from the BSB and from Jeannette Marino's school, a new Spanish trio, and several other groups: and one Mystery Singer (stay around, you may be surprised!). We are always looking for new performers, so next year if you or your children can sing or dance or play, contact us.

So finally, please come and join in the fun of the Fayre. We look forward to seeing you all.

▲up