Friendship Fair returns to great fanfare

Last Friday and Saturday, the 24th Annual Friendship Fair at the Church of the Ascension in Rockville Centre returned after a one-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Most of the wide-ranging selection of items at the fair was donated by church parishioners.

Tents were set up on the grass outside of the church on North Village Avenue, but the event also extended into the church building where an art gallery was set up as well as gift baskets that were raffled.

“This year, we have had more donations and more stuff than ever in the past,” the Rev. Kevin Morris said. “So, we’ve been overwhelmed with donations, which has been a blessing.”

The fair was started as a community event as a way to raise funds for the church while bringing the community together. “It’s a massive undertaking that takes time and effort, but it’s fun to see and meet people,” Morris said.

The event was staffed by volunteer parishioners, including an enthusiastic group of children running the toy table.

Since 1975, the fair has been known for its variety of items, including gifts, home décor, crafts, antiques, furniture, toys, Christmas items, jewelry and more.

The fair also marked the re-opening of the Shop at Ascension, which offers a variety of homemade products, including sweaters for dogs of all sizes, shell-filled jars and more.

All funds from the two-day event are used to benefit the church.