All Saints Day in Ave Maria, Florida: Faith, Family and a Beautiful Community Tradition

There are moments in Ave Maria, Florida, that remind us why this town is such a special place to raise children, welcome grandchildren and share life with our neighbors. The All Saints Day Parish Picnic is one of them. This Saturday, October 31, families will gather on the lawn behind Ave Maria Catholic Church from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for an afternoon of faith, friendship and fun for all ages. With All Saints Day falling on Sunday, November 1, it is a beautiful way to begin the celebration. We’re not opposed to trick-or-treating. Dressing up, collecting candy and visiting neighbors can be wonderful childhood memories. But a priest’s encouragement has stayed with us: when we have the opportunity to choose something better, why not embrace it? For our family, this celebration offers something especially meaningful. The children still get the costumes, excitement and games, while discovering heroes whose lives point them toward heaven. When the Saints Go Marching In One of our favorite moments is watching the little ones receive a priest’s blessing before processing along to “When the Saints Go Marching In.” There is something wonderful about seeing those small faces, carefully chosen costumes and proud parents gathered around. Over the years, we have loved seeing children portray St. Maximilian Kolbe, St. Thérèse the Little Flower, Our Blessed Mother, St. Padre Pio and St. John Vianney. This year, the newly beatified Blessed Fulton Sheen offers another inspiring figure for children to discover. And a costume honoring Father Vincent Capodanno—the military chaplain whose courage particularly impressed the veterans among us—is a reminder that these outfits can begin conversations that stay with children long after the picnic ends. Behind each costume is a story of faith, courage, sacrifice or extraordinary love. A Picnic Made Possible by Generous Neighbors Then come the lawn games, laughter and the simple pleasure of spending an afternoon together. We are especially grateful to the Knights of Columbus, who so generously provide burgers and hot dogs, and the Columbiettes, whose help organizing and keeping everything running makes this tradition possible. These celebrations happen because people give their time. They set up, cook, serve, organize and clean up so other families can simply arrive and enjoy being together. That generosity is part of what makes parish life in Ave Maria so beautiful. For new residents and returning snowbirds, the picnic is also a lovely opportunity to meet people. Bring the children or grandchildren, introduce yourself and enjoy a community tradition that welcomes every generation. More Family Fun Around Ave Maria The weekend also includes Night at the Museum at Ave Maria University on Friday, October 30, from 7–9 p.m. The university’s listing describes candy for children at the Mother Teresa Museum, with the event location listed as Prince Lobby. Families can also look out for the All Saints party planned at Ave Maria Catholic Academy on Saturday evening. Check the school’s announcement for the time and participation details before attending. One More Reason We Love Ave Maria For us, the All Saints celebration is one of those traditions that captures the heart of this town: children learning about holiness, neighbors serving neighbors, grandparents enjoying the afternoon and families making memories together. There is room for laughter, costumes, good food and play—and at the center of it all, a reminder that we are called to become saints, too. Join the All Saints Day Parish Picnic this Saturday, October 31, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the lawn behind Ave Maria Catholic Church. Visit the parish event page to register, and encourage the children to come dressed as their favorite saint.