Two years ago, Nicky Smith, organizer of the Lititz United Methodist Church (LUMC) annual Peach Festival, along with her committee, canceled the event due to COVID-19 restrictions. A year ago, Smith canceled the event again, knowing that owners of businesses and others that donate were struggling to get back on their feet.

For 2022, the way is clear to hold the event, and Nicky and her helpers, including her husband, David, are hard at work. This year's Peach Festival will be held on Saturday, Sept. 10, from noon to 3 p.m. at the church, 201 E. Market St., Lititz. As in the past, the event will pay homage to all things peachy and include entertainment, kids' activities, a silent auction, and plenty of food.

Entertainment will be provided by LUMC contemporary worship leader Eric Fisher, who will perform beginning at noon. At 1:45 p.m., students of Cricket's Performing Arts will take the stage.

Activities for children will include yard games and a special activity coordinated by the church education teacher. At 1:15 p.m., a candy scramble will be held on the hillside adjacent to the church.

Beginning at noon, a silent auction will feature up to 50 donated items, including gift cards, a throw rug contributed by Adair's Brunnerville Flooring, an Andy Smith print, theme baskets, and passes to the Kalahari Resorts Water Park in the Poconos. David reported that sports memorabilia will include a puck donated by the Philadelphia Flyers and an autographed photo from the Philadelphia Eagles. When the auction ends at 3 p.m., winners who are present may collect their item, and those who have left will be contacted.

Food items available for purchase will include Peachy Paterno ice cream made by Penn State Berkey Creamery and fresh peach sundaes. Hot dogs and pork barbecue sandwiches will also be sold, along with a variety of baked goods such as brownies, chocolate chip cookies, and peach-flavored items.

Each year, funds raised by the Peach Festival benefit a nonprofit organization. Past recipients have included local first responders, the Lititz Public Library, and Warwick Released Time. This year, funds will be directed to Lumina, an organization with a mission to "share the love of God by equipping and encouraging people who experience poverty and hardship."

"Lumina is located in Lancaster. (The organization) works on houses and helping underprivileged individuals in Lancaster County," said Nicky, who noted that LUMC members have helped with demolishing and rebuilding projects. "They have asked for cooking supplies for a cooking school that helps (those in need) to learn to use fresh products rather than reaching for fast food." David said that the goal for the Peach Festival is to give at least $1,000 to the designated organization.

More information about the church may be found at https://lititzumc.org.