Fall festival returns to NRBC

Published 10:11 pm Wednesday, October 5, 2016

UPDATE: The church has decided to reschedule this event for Nov. 5 from noon to 4 p.m.

As the last few warm days of the year wind down, Nansemond River Baptist Church hopes to celebrate the changing seasons during its big fall festival.

The festival is planned for Saturday, from noon to 4 p.m., but everything depends on the weather.

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Last year’s event was canceled because of inclement weather. However, the tradition of the festival goes back more than two decades.

At its peak, the fest has attracted more than 1,600 visitors, according to Allison Hamilton, event coordinator and church member.

The festivities will take place on the church’s soccer field, located alongside Bridge Road, near the Godwin Bridge. There will be food, corn hole, face painting, hayrides, a petting zoo and other activities for all to enjoy.

“It’s a good time — it’s definitely family-oriented,” she said.

Hamilton said she has noticed that some people tend to shy away from attending church but are always looking for opportunities to connect with the community. This is why she believes the festival has been successful for so many years.

This year, the church is introducing something new.

The “Mom 2 Mom” program invites new mothers to gain advice and teachings from experienced mothers in the church. There will be program representatives on site at the fall festival.

The program typically meets every first and third Tuesday of the month, according to Hamilton.

In addition, there are plans to have one of the city’s fire trucks on-site for demonstrations. Also, other first responders and their families are expected to attend.

“It’s a nice, relaxed, kickback day,” Hamilton said.

With uncertainty of Hurricane Matthew’s track this weekend, Hamilton said the church would decide by Friday whether the festival is still a go.