The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Let the Fest begin
Music festival founder seeks to plant seeds of faith, hope, love in future generations
The Fest’s “Generations” theme for 2019 is a fitting one.
During the past two decades, founder Father Bob Stec has watched the free family music festival not only grow, but grow up at The Center for Pastoral Leadership in Wickliffe.
“Having done this for 19 years, I see people that have been coming as kids bringing their own families,” he said. “It’s really wonderful. The teenagers that grew up helping put on The Fest are now bringing their children to do the same. It’s a beautiful cycle.”
The free event, from noon to 10 p.m. Aug. 4, draws about 40,000 people annually for live bands, blessings, activities, food and other vendors, a Family Fun Zone with inflatables and games, and a massive Mass celebration.
This year’s lineup includes Jordan Feliz, Matt Maher, Tenth Avenue North and headliner Casting Crowns.
Along with hundreds of volunteers, sponsors and donors make the $900,000 production possible.
But The Fest has never been simply about entertainment. In keeping with the theme, the event will reinforce the importance of passing on to future generations what matters most.
“In times gone by, it was much easier,” to pass these things on, Stec said. “There were far less distractions.” The message will be driven home to men who take part in the “Man Cave,” an experience complete with attractions geared toward guys and staffed by those eager to encourage men to rise up and lead by example.
“There’s going to be a lot of men there to engage the conversation with other guys,” Stec said. “Playing a game of pool ... or sharing an iced coffee and a message about being a good husband, being a good father.”
A series of regional cookouts are planned after the festival to provide more opportunities to “surround guys with other good godly men,” he said.
The Fest also aims to make a difference in the region via its annual social outreach. This year, the volunteers will be preparing thousands of “street kits,” including essentials like toiletries, to disseminate at centers in Cleveland, Akron and Lorain.
The ever-popular goodie bags again will be given out to women at the Marc’s Mom’s Relaxation Station, containing items up to a $50 value combined.
“Honestly, they are better than ever,” Stec said.
At the end of the night, tree saplings will be given away for people to plant as a reminder of the “seeds” planted in hearts throughout the event.
“The whole day is about passing on,” he said.
Fourteen shuttle buses will be available to bring attendees to the grounds from parking areas off-site. Visitors are asked to restrict shelters 4 feet tall or less.
The Fest takes place at 28700 Euclid Ave. For more information, visit thefest. us.