The sixth annual Hope Fest will return to Westford on Sept. 19, bringing live entertainment, family activities and community fundraising together in support of children and families affected by childhood cancer.
The event will be held in the parking lot of Evviva Trattoria, 7 Cornerstone Square, during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Proceeds will benefit Charley’s Rainbow Foundation, an organization that supports children diagnosed with cancer and their families.
Hope Fest was inspired by Charley, who was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma at five months old, on Christmas Day. She died eight months later at the age of 13 months.
Angela Hennington, general manager of Evviva Trattoria in Westford, said Charley’s story inspired her to continue advocating for children battling cancer.
“Her story, her fight, did something to me that made me realize that we need to do better. That day, I made a promise to continue her fight and help others through her,” Hennington said.
This year’s festival will feature a craft fair, superhero meet-and-greets, a motorcycle run, outdoor dining, live music, games, raffles, a line dancing class and a comedy show. A reptile petting zoo will be held in memory of Nathan, the son of Hennington’s friend who died from brain cancer three years ago.
Children will also be able to participate in an essay contest, with the winning entry receiving $100. High school students are scheduled to perform songs honoring children who have died from cancer and those who continue to fight the disease.
The event will also include a “Light Up the Night” display involving local police departments and a dunk tank featuring a surprise guest.
Hope Fest has previously helped families in Massachusetts, Kentucky and Ohio and supported Massachusetts General Hospital. Organizers will again collect donations through a “Hope Tree” for the hospital. Last December, the effort resulted in two carloads of toys delivered to children at Mass General, with help from local police and firefighters.
Hennington said banners and posters featuring children affected by cancer will be displayed throughout Hope Fest to remind attendees of the event’s purpose.
“This event is fun but also very emotional at times,” Hennington said. “I would love for you all to come see it come to life.”
