Keys Vineyard Church is inviting families from across the Lower Keys to its annual Family Fun Night on Wednesday, offering free food, games, school supplies and entertainment in an event designed to bring the community together before the start of the school year.
The free event will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the church and will feature carnival games, hot dogs, ice cream, backpacks, school supplies and activities for children of all ages.
Pastor Douglas Lawes said the event began several years ago after his family hosted a birthday party for his son.
“One of the families we invited said, ‘Wow, it looks like Chuck E. Cheese is in here,'” Lawes recalled. “The thought was, ‘Hey, can we do something kind of similar with what we have?’ So we’ve been doing this event for a few years. It’s so much fun.”
This year’s event will feature new carnival-style games, including axe throwing, tic-tac-toe challenges and other family-friendly activities. Organizers have also added a stage show featuring characters from the church’s recent Vacation Bible School, along with trivia and music.
“We’re excited about this one,” Lawes said. “We have some new carnival games we found, and the goal was for it to be a little less loud. It’s going to be really fun.”
The church’s popular food truck will also be on site serving complimentary hot dogs, ice cream and other treats.
“You don’t have to worry about dinner that evening,” Lawes said. “If you don’t like hot dogs, I don’t know what to tell you.”
In addition to the food and activities, the church will distribute free backpacks and school supplies to children preparing to return to school.
“You don’t have to sign up for anything,” Lawes said. “Here you go. Here’s a backpack, some school supplies, and we’re happy to give those away and thankful for the opportunity to do so.”
Lawes emphasized that Family Fun Night is intended as a community event open to everyone.
“It’s just an awesome opportunity, and we’re so thankful to be able to bless our community,” he said. “Bring any kids, invite any kids you can think of. We’ve got plenty, and it’s going to be a lot of fun.”
The church is also seeking volunteers to help with the event.
“It’s not too late. We can take volunteers,” Lawes said. “If you show up, we’ll find a spot for you.”
The church also has a food truck ministry, which regularly serves free refreshments at community events and schools throughout the Keys.
“There’s nothing better than free ice cream, free iced coffees,” Lawes said. “Just as a church being invited to schools or functions or anything that’s going on is just an awesome opportunity.”
Keys Vineyard Church also offers weekly worship services, livestreams and podcasts, along with a free online Bible Institute that provides ministry training to students around the world.
“I could talk about our church for hours,” Lawes said. “Thank you so much for letting me come on and talk about church.”
For more information, click here: https://keysvineyard.com/