The much-loved St. Gerard Festival is making its return this weekend in Lima, Ohio, bringing joy, food, and entertainment to people of all ages.
Starting Friday, June 7, the event will be held on the church grounds of St. Gerard Catholic Church, and it’s expected to draw a large crowd from across the region.
The festival will run for three days—Friday, Saturday, and Sunday—and includes a variety of attractions that have made it one of the most awaited local events in Lima. It’s a family-friendly festival that combines religious tradition with community fun.
Friday night will kick off with a strong start. Organizers are expecting a lively atmosphere with games, carnival rides, and plenty of food options.
From freshly grilled hamburgers to popular festival snacks like funnel cakes, there’s something for every appetite. Beer stands and soft drink booths will also be set up throughout the event space.
Live music will be a big part of the weekend festivities. Several bands and local musicians are scheduled to perform throughout the weekend, offering a mix of genres to entertain the crowd.
The music usually starts in the evening and goes on until closing time. Visitors can enjoy performances while sitting outdoors or walking through the grounds.
On Saturday, the event is expected to be even more crowded as families and groups of friends gather to enjoy the day. The children’s area will be fully active with games, bounce houses, and fun activities for younger kids.
For the grown-ups, there will be raffle drawings and booths selling crafts, religious items, and other local products.
Sunday will bring the festival to a close but not before one of the most important parts of the event takes place—the St. Gerard Procession.
This is a faith-centered moment where community members join together in a walk around the church, honoring St. Gerard, the patron saint of mothers and families. It’s a tradition that has been going on for decades and remains close to the heart of the church community.
Fr. Paul Mathew, the pastor of St. Gerard Catholic Church, has expressed excitement about the return of the festival.
After a few quieter years due to the pandemic and other changes, the church is happy to welcome everyone back for a full celebration. He shared that the festival is not just about fun but also about bringing people together, both within the church and the larger Lima community.
Volunteers from the parish and surrounding areas have been working hard to make the festival possible. From setting up tents and game booths to preparing the food and organizing the music, it’s a true community effort.
The funds raised from the festival go back into supporting church activities, charity programs, and maintaining the church property.
Parking will be available on-site and nearby areas, and security staff will be present to ensure safety throughout the event. Visitors are encouraged to come early, especially on Saturday, as the grounds can get quite packed by the evening hours.
Those planning to attend can follow the St. Gerard Catholic Church’s official Facebook page or parish website for updates on event schedules, weather alerts, or last-minute changes.
For anyone living in or around Lima—or even those visiting from nearby towns—the St. Gerard Festival is a great way to enjoy the summer weekend. It offers a good balance of fun, food, faith, and music, making it a well-rounded experience for both families and individuals.
Whether you’re coming for the music, the food, or the spirit of the event, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So, if you’re looking for weekend plans, head over to St. Gerard’s grounds and be part of a tradition that brings people together every year in joy and community spirit.