Over 2000 Attend LifeLight Festival at Farley

With God all things are possible, so perhaps finding Big Foot and God in the same place isn’t so strange. It seemed to make perfect sense to over 2000 people of all ages who attended the LifeLight festival on Saturday, August 25, at Lake Farley in Milbank. Volunteers who manned the parking area gave gate estimates of between 2000 and 3000; organizer Daryl Liebe just said there were “a lot.” He doesn’t know the exact number because LifeLight festivals and concerts are presented free – everything is provided by faith.

Liebe says a lot of things have to fall into place to make these events work, but it all came together. He says, “The first $39,000 raised for the $47,000 budget came smoothly…the last $8000 was harder…”

“Big Foot wasn’t in the original plan either,” said Liebe, “but when I asked Twin Valley Tire for a donation, they generously offered the monster truck event.” The initial plan was to set up on Main Street again this year because of its proximity to local shops and food options. Once Big Foot entered the picture, a new location had to be secured. Lake Farley fit the bill, especially because of its parking options.

The Milbank LifeLight festival was one of 14 scheduled this spring and summer to continue the group’s mission of “taking the Church outside the walls.” LifeLight provides quality entertainment with a positive message at no cost to families and aims to attract multi generations. The program is Christian-based, but non-denominational, and includes nationally-known musical groups, activities, and food vendors from the local and regional area.

Does LifeLight see another event in Milbank next year? Liebe says, “I hope so!” He points to surveys taken in the “Why Milbank?” campaign which list complaints about violence, drugs, etc. Liebe concedes, “This didn’t happen overnight. We need to step up and invest if we want things to change.” He says, “Life Light is a good way.”

Photos submitted by Alicia Wilcox