About

The ‘original’ festival was a simple picnic that was held by volunteers, their families and friends during the year of the Shrine’s dedication. As a good time had by all at this event, it inspired its continuation and expansion for the following year. The Festival was the brainchild of Dr. Raymond Chase and his wife, Virginia along with Father Michael Zembruski, the founder of the Shrine. Their idea was to create an ethnic celebration combined with an old-fashioned country fair.