St Anthony’s Summer Fayre

By Yvonne Nielsen, Chair of the Parish Fayre Committee

Kraainem (06 June 2006).- 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 11, 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.
This year’s Fayre as every year has some exceptional free entertainment on offer. Back again as firm favourites are Los Eternos our parish Webmaster’s Ferran Tarradellas Spanish group, our own Parish Folk Group with special guest, the Brussels American Community Choir, the Karen Ward School of Dance and Crossroads with our own Oliver Gray. We also have some exceptional new artists participating. We have a well known Irish Folk Group, the Brussels Concert Band which includes an orchestra of between 30 to 50 musicians playing a variety of Big Band music. We have a well known Flemish Blues Singer Marjolaine and a wonderful Scottish Pipe Band. We also have some amazing dancers to entertain. We have The Beran Parry School of Dance who will have around 14 Spanish Dancers on stage doing the Flamenco, there is traditional Irish Dancing provided by a Flemish dancing school and exciting African and Philippino Dance. Plus, a first for the Fayre we have our own special Fashion Show.
The Fayre gives us all an opportunity to meet old and new parishioners and the wider community. 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 of 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 live 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? 
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 Objets 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 rides. For the very energetic there is the wonderful Bouncy Castle where you can jump up and down to your hearts delight. 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.
So finally, please come and join in the fun of the Fayre. We look forward to seeing you all.

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