By Greg Ellison, Staff Writer

(Oct. 19, 2017) Family fun will abound in Snow Hill during the inaugural Mt. Zion Harvest Festival this Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The free event is scheduled outside the Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church at 410 Dighton Avenue. Church member Sylvester “Dawk” Bratten Sr., who joined the ministry eight years ago and is currently training to become a deacon, said the concept for the no-cost afternoon came from newcomers at the congregation. “These are new ideas from new church members,” he said. “This is our first year doing it.” In addition to a bouncy house, Bratten said there would also be numerous crafts and games to occupy and delight children. “There will be a variation on corn hole for kids,” he said. In light of football season, Bratten said tikes could also try their luck at kicking field goals through kid-size goal posts. Bratten said adults and children could enjoy nourishment for free, including hot dogs, candy apples, frozen slushes, popcorn and cake. The concept is to have a day for the community to share fun, food and fellowship, Bratten said. The event will coincide with Oktoberfest in downtown Snow Hill and provide another no-cost outdoor event packed with family activities. Looking ahead, Bratten hopes the Mt. Zion Harvest Festival will become a recurring affair. “This will bring kids and the community together,” he said. “After you bring kids together, the parents will come together.”