Attendees to Clearwater’s Rejoice Lutheran Church’s annual Lutefisk & Swedish Meatball Dinner & Fall Festival were once again greeted by Ole and Lena (Pastor Steve Timm and Liz Smith) during the event last Saturday.

 

Inside the church, the silent auction had people checking on the 179 items up for bid throughout the day, and the bake sale, homemade gifts and Granny’s Attic offered shopping for all ages and tastes. 

 

Attendees could also purchase raffle tickets for numerous prizes, including a flat screen TV and a quilt donated by St. Luke’s quilting group.

 

Outside the church, the dunk tank was easily one of the more popular spots even with the cool weather, with dunkees Pastor Timm and Youth and Family Coordinator Sara Miller drawing the most throwers eager for a chance to see them get them wet. 

 

The Kidz Karnival offered games and a bounce house, and the Clearwater Fire Dept. manned one of their fire trucks for kids to explore. There was also garden-fresh produce available for purchase.

 

Ole’s Grill & Beer Garden offered food and beverages as well as a spot for attendees to take a break, relax and chat with friends and neighbors.

 

As always, the most anticipated event of the festival was the lutefisk and Swedish meatball dinner, served at 3:30 and 5:00 p.m.. Along with the traditional meal, over 220 diners were treated to a variety Scandinavian desserts.

 

Rejoice would like to thank the Clearwater Lions, Clearwater American Legion, Bernicks, Coborn’s and many local and regional businesses for their donations, the Clearwater Fire Dept., and the many individuals who gave of their time, talent and treasures.

 

The fall festival was begun as a traditional honoring of the area’s Scandinavian heritage. Along with the meal, activities were added to reach out to others and make the day one that can be enjoyed by all.

 

The annual festival is a major fundraiser for Rejoice; money raised will go to the church’s general fund.