Planners at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Mound will be using the 29th annual Incredible Festival, Sept. 5-7 to kick off a year of subsequent special events and activities that will celebrate the church’s 100th birthday.

“As the church has grown, so has the festival,” the event’s organizing chair, Bob Blake, said. “What started as a chicken dinner and a few kiddie rides has now grown to three days packed with free entertainment, various food booths, a beer tent, volleyball tournaments, kids games, a $6,500 raffle, a silent auction, an extensive carnival with games and rides for all ages, and a new 5K fun run/walk.”

Entertainment begins Sept. 5 with the Westonka Kids (Jr. Pop Singers) followed by the rock band Olive Oyl.

The festival’s second day, Sept. 6, kicks off with a new 5k fun run/walk that will be followed by the kiddie parade - themed “Pioneers and Pilgrims” this year. After the parade, kids will have an opportunity to participate in a bike drawing, face painting, and balloon art.

The Westonka Whirlers will square dance, and they are followed by the song and dance of the Westonka Pop Singers. The Everett Smithson Band will close out the night with a mix of blues, zydeco, rock, and country music. This year organizers have added a twist to the musical performance as an artist will be doing a live painting on stage with the band. The painting will then be up for bid in the silent auction that will close at 3 p.m. the final day of the festival.

A cribbage tournament and a Texas Hold ‘em tourament will also be held Sept. 6.

The festival’s Sunday entertainment offers those who appreciate dance something local - The West Star Dancers from Watertown - and something from afar - a dance and choir group from Venezuela.

Bingo is scheduled on Saturday and Sunday in the big tent.

The festival’s initial offering is still one of its staple attractions. The traditional chicken dinner will be served Sept. 7 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

The Festival wraps up with the drawing for the $6,500 raffle at 5 p.m.

“The Incredible Festival offers you the opportunity for a little getaway right here in Mound,” said Blake. “This is a chance for one last fun outing before all the routines of the school year begin.

The money raised from the event supports the church and some of its community outreach efforts, according to Blake. “Proceeds from the Festival, in part, allow the parish to help give back to the community by supporting numerous programs aimed at helping individuals, mothers, and families that need assistance. The programs and support are provided for anyone that has a need,” he said.

For more information contact the parish office, (952) 472-1284.