Following a two-year absence caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual festival of St. Joseph Parish of the Panther Valley, Summit Hill, will return in full operation this weekend.

The popular event, now in its 88th year, will begin on Friday at 5 p.m. on the church grounds, situated at the extreme western end of Ludlow Street in the community. Picnicking will take place until 9 o’clock that evening.

Friday’s entertainment will be provided by Jay Smar from 6-9 p.m., with the festival to start up again on Saturday, at 5 p.m. and continue for the next four hours. That entertainment will be provided by the Pennsylvania Villagers.

Sunday’s festivities will be from 5-10 p.m. and will conclude with the traditional fireworks display. Sunday’s music will be by Factory Seconds.

“St. Joseph’s Parish is excited to welcome everyone back to highly popular and anticipated Annual Summer Festival after a two-year absence due to COVID-19,” said the Rev. Bob George, the pastor of the church who will be experiencing the festival for the first time since he was transferred to Summit Hill a little more than a year ago.

He added, “The festival is not just a fundraising opportunity, but a great community event, a place where families and friends can gather together and enjoy themselves.”

Throughout the weekend, ethnic foods such as halupki, halushki, bleenies, pierogies, French fries, sausage and pepper, meatball and pork sandwiches, and more, will be available. Traditional foods such as hot dogs and hamburgers will also be available, as well fried Oreos and baked goods.

The parish stands will feature a number of games for children and adults.

In addition, drawings for cash, home heating fuel, gas cards, a grill and a 65-inch television will also take place.

Instead of the usual basket auction tent, the church will hold a “Mega Basket Auction,” with 10 prizes, each valued in excess of $300, to be awarded. The prizes include “Gaggle of Gift Cards,” a Lottery Tree, Boyer’s Gift Cards, a Paper Product Tower, a Corn Hole Board with Summer Supplies, School Supplies with a Chromebook, a Basket of Cash, a Basket of Cheer, a Basket of Wine and a Chest Freezer with Meat Vouchers.

Father Bob added, “Today, more than ever, it is important to spend time with people you care about and love in a family atmosphere, and St. Joseph’s Festival is the perfect spot. Most of the food is homemade, especially our ethic menu items. So come out with your family, sit back, relax, laugh and make new family memories right here at the great St. Joseph Summer Festival.”