St. James Festival Marks 50 Years

Casandra Turnbull

Managing Editor

What began in 1975 as a small church fundraiser to repair the Parish Hall has grown into a beloved, bustling community tradition. This year, the St. James Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary—an unexpected milestone that organizers say is the product of countless hands and hearts over five decades.

“Reaching 50 years is totally unexpected,” said church representative Scott Millward. “So many people over the years have contributed to this event. Those who have passed on would be shocked likely to know that we are still moving this event forward.”

The festival’s roots are humble. It started on the church grounds with booths run by St. James convenors. As crowds swelled, the event moved to the Fairgrounds—and never looked back—opening the door to outside vendors and a larger footprint. Along the way, organizers experimented with themes, from a garden focus to a popular miniatures showcase, while preserving the festival’s core: friendly faces, homemade goods, and a welcoming, family vibe.

On September 27th, this year’s attendees will find the festival’s greatest hits all in one place: the jams and jellies table, fresh pies, home décor, bangles and beads, home baking, a cozy “book nook,” and the ever-popular “junktique.” Fourteen outside vendors will join the church booths, and a tasty lineup of local favourites will be on site, including Doug Hunt, Alice’s Kitchen (food truck), Hitched Coffee, and What’s The Scoop ice cream.

“It’s the variety that keeps people coming back,” Millward noted. “Take your time and look thoroughly at each booth—there’s something for everyone.”

Every $2 entry ticket doubles as a chance to win a hand-stitched quilt—one of the festival’s most cherished traditions. In recent years, the quilts have been coordinated by St. James quilters Dawn McClelland and Sherry Just, and this year is no different. One of the raffle quilts is a fall-themed piece made collaboratively by the women of the church. The second, crafted by Donna Millward and donated in honour of the 50th year, will also be on display. Both quilts showcase meticulous craftsmanship and the spirit of giving that defines the festival.

“All members of St. James get involved in the festival in one way or another,” Millward said. “From preparing the jams and jellies to baking pies. Many help with set up and take down on the day. Everyone contributes!”

Proceeds support St. James’ ongoing ministries, including outreach initiatives such as the local food bank, ensuring the festival’s impact extends well beyond a single day.

As for the next 50 years? Organizers are both hopeful and pragmatic. “Who knows where the festival will go? I’m sure the original organizers were not looking that far ahead,” Millward stated. “It is a very large undertaking that requires much planning and many people—and next year’s event begins when the current one ends.”

Their message to first-time visitors is simple: slow down and soak it in. “There is a wide variety of things being offered. The church members will all have name tags, so stop along your way to say hi to us. Thanks for supporting St. James Festival for 50 years!”

The St. James Festival takes place on September 27th from 9 am to 2 pm at the Paris Fairgrounds.