The festival originated in 1995, envisioned by the late associate minister Louis Sada.
“He wanted to do something to bring the community to our future church,” Building Supervisor Marie Abbott said. “At the time, we had purchased the land as our new church site from a couple of miles away in Missouri City, and this was his way of connecting with neighbors and welcoming them in.”
The event has remained true to its mission and grown exponentially.
Fun, food and festivities
The event features 70 vendors, a huge silent auction, food trucks, a tea room and a free carnival midway with games and inflatables.
A unique and beloved aspect of the festival is Aunt Hattie's Baked Goods, a storefront of homemade treats.
“Church members and even non-church members bake a variety of treats to help raise money for the church,” Abbott said. “This year, we’re offering options like sugar-free and gluten-free treats, and we’re selling smaller portions so you may purchase single servings or buy the entire dessert.”
This year's festival will feature new activities, including a Velcro axe-throwing game and a triple play sports inflatable for basketball, football and baseball.
A festival that gives back
The Fall Festival is more than fun; it’s the church’s major fundraiser, supporting local and global missions and church programs.
“Most of the money goes to missions, and the rest covers unbudgeted church needs,” Abbott said.
Funds help local schools, scout troops and community groups like Cultivating Families and East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministries. They also support regional and international missions, including disaster relief and educational programs through the United Methodist Conference.
Every part of the festival contributes to these efforts, from the silent auction and vendor sales to Aunt Hattie’s Baked Goods and the tea room, allowing visitors to enjoy a family-friendly day while giving back to the community.
Important information
The fall festival will be at First United Methodist Church Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd., Missouri City.
Admission is free. Families can enjoy the outdoor carnival midway, games and inflatables at no cost. Food trucks, the tea room, Aunt Hattie’s Baked Goods and vendor items will be available for purchase.
Parking is free, and there is plenty of on-site space for festival-goers.
Get involved and learn more
The festival relies on volunteers and vendors for success.
Volunteer shifts are flexible, lasting two hours, and can be signed up online through the church’s website.
Local artisans, crafters and businesses can still apply for vendor spots to showcase products to hundreds of festival-goers. Interested vendors can click here for the application.
To learn about the fall festival, visit www.fumcmc.org/fall-festival.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
