St. Jude's to hold festival and boutique

St. Jude's September Festival and Boutique, the church's largest annual event, is scheduled for Sat. and Sun., Sept. 16 and 17 on the church campus at 32032 W. Lindero Canyon Road, Westlake Village.

A signature event of the festival is the prize drawing for a round-trip cruise along the West Coast from Los Angeles to Acapulco.

The two-day event is expected to draw thousands to its carnival, boutique, and new attractions, such as fencing demonstrations and a hip-hop exhibition.

This is the first year that St. Jude's has featured a round-trip Mexican Riviera cruise. Tickets for the drawing are $2 each or a book of 20 tickets for $30 and may be purchased in person at the church's

pastoral office or by calling the office at (818) 889-1279. Additionally, drawing tickets will be sold after weekend Masses at the church.

Other prizes include a Palm Springs getaway at the Oasis Resort for a five-night stay, and a $500 cash prize.

"We will have rides, games, delicious food, refreshment booths, and a 'kid zone' where children may have their faces painted, create a craft to take home, enjoy some popcorn, cotton candy and a sno-cone. Our annual book sale is a big draw and we also have selected vendors, a delicious 'Sweet Shop' and our own Market Place," said Marilyn Grebbien, festival chair.

There will also be live entertainment and excitement throughout both days, she said.

Grebbien also said this year the book sale will feature an expanded selection, and there will be specialty vendors featuring jewelry, clothing, candles, personalized cards and home decors. Another highlight of the event will be two decorated table settings that will be sold in their entirety, featuring coordinated dishes, flatware and glassware.

The St. Jude Catholic Community serves more than 3,200 parishioners in the area. The faith community includes a K-8 elementary school on site.

The church has a strong relationship with local charities and donations are collected for various organizations on a regular basis.