Community Harvest Festival

Food and drink, live music, and a silent auction

The historic Church of St. John In The Wilderness announces the 2022 Community Harvest Festival to be held Saturday, September 17, 5:00-7:30pm at its beautiful property in Copake Falls, NY. The event is open to the public and will feature food and drink, live music with Broadway Composer Jim Wann and Friends, and a silent auction. Tickets are $75 general admission and $25 for those 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased online.

“We are so excited to invite friends and neighbors to spend time with us outdoors in this beautiful setting,” said Fr. John Thompson, Rector of St. John’s (Episcopal), which was built in 1852. “Fall is a special season in Columbia County. We want to share the campus and the talents of the congregation with our neighbors as we celebrate our community.” The Church of St. John in the Wilderness is located at 261 NY-344, Copake Falls, NY.

Jim Wann, best known for “Pump Boys and Dinettes,” a Tony Nominee for Best Musical, will host a program of American Songbook Standards and Irish Traditional Music led by Robbie Haldane, a craftsman who is also creating a new accessible church entrance from local granite. “We look forward to playing and singing outdoors in mid-September” said Mr. Wann. “Robbie plays melodeon and pennywhistle, and the standards will be played on guitar and clarinet (John Myers) and upright bass (Pete Toigo).  “We might throw in a rockabilly tune just for Pete.” The music is appropriate for all ages.

A hearty assortment of appetizers will be served buffet-style, and attendees can sit at tables under the big tent. Everything needed for a beautiful fall meal will be provided. Wendy Langlois and her team will be preparing the menu.

Guests will have an opportunity to bid on many silent auction items. Gift certificates to local restaurants and shops, vacations, artwork and food and wine baskets are just some of the items that are expected.

St John in the Wilderness is designed by Richard Upjohn, founding President of the American Institute of Architects in 1857, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. All proceeds from this fundraising event will help preserve the historic grounds, graveyard, rectory and church.

Rain date, Saturday September 24.  For more information, contact Jim or Patricia Wann by emailing [email protected].

Artwork by Richard Peck