The annual Harvest Festival, organized and hosted by State Representative Vernon G. Smith, a Gary Democrat, will be held Friday at 7 p.m. at New Hope Church, located at 2307 Rhode Island St., in Gary.
The event is held each year in memory of Smith's mother, the Rev. Julia E. Smith, and his aunt, Magnolia Allen, according to a press release. The late Julia E. Smith was the former pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church.
This year's performers include gospel soloists Nate Mason and Stefan Henderson, the West Side Theater Guild dance troupe Wings of Harmony, and the West Side Drama Club will present a performance of the creation.
Visitors can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner including turkey, dressing, roast beef, macaroni and cheese, green beans, collard greens, mashed potatoes, cabbage, sweet potatoes and a variety of desserts. The celebration is free to attend and open to all residents of the Greater Gary area.
“There is a place for everyone at the table,” Smith said in a press release. “Everyone is invited to the celebration. If you have family plans, bring them. If you don't have plans, we will be your family. I would especially like to extend the invitation to our veterans and military personnel. Their sacrifice and service is one of the reasons we have so many blessings for which we have to be grateful.”
