The Church of St. Thérèse of Lisieux will host its 25th annual Fun ‘n’ Food Fest next weekend.

On Sept. 16-17, the fest will feature more than 30 vendors, a silent auction, games, a yard sale, a $1,000 raffle and musical performances from local groups. The Chesapeake fire department and police K-9 unit will also perform demonstrations. The event will run from 4 to 10 p.m. on Friday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday.

Several years ago, the church hosted community dinners on a regular basis to raise funds for a church expansion. However, the pastor wanted the church to host a larger scale fundraiser, which brought about Fun ‘n’ Food Fest.

Typically, the fest attracts upwards of 1,500 people and raises between $15,000 to $20,000, according to church member Kathy Renigar.

“We are hoping for a larger crowd this year,” Renigar said.

For the first time ever, instead of raising funds for the church, all proceeds will go toward local charities.

“This is an opportunity for inexpensive family fun, which ultimately goes to a good cause,” Renigar said.

Admission and parking for the event is free of charge. The church is located at 4137 Portsmouth Blvd., Chesapeake.