More than 400 people attended the sixth annual Harvest Fest on Saturday at the west lot of Rusler Implement in Rocky Ford, where local churches hosted a free gathering featuring bounce houses, games, food and activities for all ages.
The festival brought together volunteers from Victorious Church in Swink, Valley Community Church and Westside Bible Church. Organizers said the annual gathering serves as an opportunity for outreach, fellowship, and relationship building across the Arkansas Valley.
Photo Credit: Parking lot entrance into Harvest Fest / Ronald Hernandez Jr.
“This is just an opportunity for churches to come together and really reach our community with the light of Jesus,” said Daniel Blackwell, a pastor at Victorious Church. “Here in the fall season, we call it a Harvest Fest to celebrate the harvest of souls coming into the kingdom. We’ve got bounce houses. We have candy, games, popcorn, cotton candy, and really just a lot of fun for the families.”
Throughout the afternoon, children participated in activities while volunteers distributed refreshments and greeted visitors. According to Pastor Blackwell, the festival creates opportunities for churches to engage residents outside traditional worship settings.
A study published in Healthcare found a relationship between festival participation, social capital and subjective well-being, suggesting that recurring gatherings may help strengthen local connections.
Pastor Blackwell said cooperation among congregations played an important role in the day’s success.
“So one, this is an opportunity for the members of our church to come together and be part of something bigger than themselves,” he said. “Also, I believe wholeheartedly that we are better together as the body of Christ than just one church.”
Photo Credit: Harvest Fest attendees enjoying the activities / Ronald Hernandez Jr.
Volunteers from Victorious Church, Valley Community Church and Westside Bible Church worked throughout the day to coordinate the activities and refreshments. Studies examining social capital suggest collaboration among organizations can strengthen local networks and encourage civic participation.
Beyond the turnout and volunteer efforts, one interaction stood out to pastor Blackwell.
“I love meeting new people,” he said. “Meeting a new family in La Junta that head about it for the very first time just because they came here. Seeing those new faces, new people, and really introducing them to Jesus. Today, that was my favorite moment so far.”
Research on recurring festivals suggests such gatherings can foster a sense of belonging and strengthen relationships among participants over time.
As the afternoon concluded, Pastor Blackwell reflected on the purpose behind the annual tradition.
Photo Credit: Harvest Fest Attendees trickle in and out the entrance / Ronald Hernandez Jr.
“Most of all, I just want people to know that God loves you,” he said. “That Jesus came to save you, and He wants a relationship with you.”
