Vendors fair fun for whole family

North Kern Christian School will host its third annual Fall Fest Vendors event on Saturday, Oct. 8, from 9 a.m to 1:30 p.m. It will be an opportunity to support small local businesses while raising much-needed funds for the school.

Valerie Aleman is the event chair and preschool director.

"We are expecting over 25 vendors that will be selling homemade goods, sweet treats, jewelry, clothing apparel and one-of-a-kind, unique arts and crafts," said Aleman.

Since the event was started, it has drawn large crowds.

"It brings the community and our school staff, students and parents, together to enjoy a nice family and friendly atmosphere," said Aleman.

The money generated from the event will be used for improvements to the school and educational supplies.

North Kern Christian School is a nonprofit private school serving preschool students ages two to five and elementary students from kindergarten to eighth grade.

Aleman said that helping local vendors enables them to showcase their gifts and talents and provides them with income to support their families.

In the past, the event was held in December but was switched to October this year.

"This way, people get to start their Christmas shopping early and purchase fall decorations," said Aleman. "It is a good way to welcome in the new season."

Vendors will be local from Wasco, Shafter and Bakersfield.

"We like to treat our vendors well so they can have a positive time selling their items and returning back year after year," said Aleman.

There will be live music compliments of the worship team from LifeHouse Church Wasco and a craft table for the kids while supplies last.

There will also be food like tacos, bacon-wrapped hot dogs, and refreshments from Hilda's Aguas and Johnn Boyss.

Aleman thinks it is an excellent way to connect with old friends and make new ones.

"I get to see people I haven't seen in a long time and meet their kids," said Aleman.

She added, "It's exciting for our students too because they get to share the day with their parents shopping and having a good time."

North Kern Christian School is small, and there is more one-on-one interaction.

"You get to strengthen the relationship with students and their parents," said Aleman. "I am Christian, and it is also great that we can share our faith with our school community."

The school was established in the fall of 1978 by the Mennonite Brethren Church of Wasco under the guidance of Pastor Vernon Reimer.

It is a non-denominational school open to all who want a Christian environment, Christ-honoring staff and curriculum for their school-age children.

"All schools are special, but I really appreciate our little school because we are able to build a small, tight-knit community."

Aleman believes that by coming to this event, you will help create unity and feel the love of God.

"We invite everyone to attend and enjoy good food, music, crafts for the kids, unique gifts and much more," said Aleman.

The free event will take place at NKCS at 710 Peters St.