A group of Christians in Bedford County will hold its ninth annual free God Bless America Festival from 11 a.m to 5 p.m. May 29 on the Everett High School grounds.
The free program will feature contemporary Christian artist Phil Stacey, who was a Top 5 finisher in the sixth season of "American Idol."
Stacey has recorded an album, "Into the Light" on Reunion Records and will join Natalie Grant on the Love Revolution tour this summer. Songs on his album include "You're Not Shaken," "It's Gotta Be Love" and "Old Glory."
Tammy DuVall, one of the founders to the festival, said it was organized to provide an area activity.
"We wanted something to build up the community and draw us closer," she said.
"The vision is to bring the community together through music and praise," said Angie DuVall, another one of the organizers.
Tammy of Everett estimates that about 1,000 people attended the event in 2009.
"We get a good following. It seems to grow every year," she said.
Headliners in the past included the Southern gospel group The Imperials and Downhere, a Christian rock band from Canada.
In addition to Stacey singing at noon and 4 p.m., several local bands will perform.
They include Godscent, the worship team at Community Grace Brethren Church, at 11 a.m., The Red Letter Band of First United Methodist Church in Hollidaysburg at 1 p.m., Almost Love from Williamsburg at 2 p.m and the Ryan Payne Band from Chambersburg at 3 p.m.
While parents listen to Christian music, their children enjoy crafts and activities in an old-fashioned revival tent, said Angie of Everett.
Tammy said most of the events for the children are free, but some activities, such as inflatables and dime toss, cost less than a dollar.
"We have a whole bunch of games, crafts and activities. The kids are busy the whole time," she said.
The National Guard is providing a rock climbing wall for the teens.
The festival will also include food.
The vendors represent various churches in the area and will sell hamburgers, ham and beef sandwiches, hot dogs, kettle corn, baked goods and beverages.
Tammy said churches representing various denominations in Bedford County make the event possible.
"We have the support of everyone around here. We all work together as the body of Christ," she said.
