CHAMBERSBURG – Shalom Christian Academy is moving its popular Dutchfest festival, but its organizers promise the popular strawberry pie, auction items, 5K, games and crafts will all return.
In an effort to offer more parking, the 47th Dutchfest is moving to the Chambersburg Rod and Gun Club (home of the Franklin County Fair) on Warm Spring Road.
“Ongoing construction on our campus makes it impossible to accommodate the large crowds and many activities that make this event so special, so we have sought an alternative location,” Suzanne Poe, director of development at Shalom Christian Academy, wrote in an email.
“After visiting the site, we are confident that they will offer the ample space, parking and amenities needed to ensure the success of the event,” she added.
Dutchfest serves as a major fundraiser for pre-K to 12th-grade school on the outskirts of Chambersburg. This year’s festivities are scheduled for Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3.
“It’s a time of joy, celebration and community as we come together to raise funds that directly support our students and the continued growth of our school,” Poe said.
Food concessions will be served starting at 5 p.m. Friday. In addition to the popular pie, there will be crab cakes (Friday only), pulled pork sandwiches, beef sandwiches, barbecue chicken (Saturday only), country ham sandwiches, pizza, french fries, funnel cakes and milkshakes,
Food and most other items for sale can be purchased using tokens available at a trailer on site.
Hurley Auctions’ live auctions both days will be complemented by online bidding. Dutchfest stays true to its roots by offering small animal and heifer auctions.
Saturday’s 5K starts at 8:30 a.m. Children’s activities include barrel rides, a petting zoo, obstacles courses, face painting and a hot air balloon.
Free admission and parking are available from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Dutchfest is held rain or shine.
“We invite you to mark your calendars for the first weekend of May, when Dutchfest will return bigger and better than ever,” Poe said. “We look forward to seeing you there and celebrating with all of our community, in a new location with the same sense of community, love and support that makes Dutchfest so special.”
