St. Louis, Mo., Jul 27, 2009 / 20:23 pm
Carthage, Missouri is preparing for its 32nd celebration of Marian Days, an annual event popular among Vietnamese Catholics for its opportunities to worship and to reunite with friends and family. Between 50,000 and 70,000 are expected for the event, one of the largest Catholic gatherings in the United States.
Carthage police use a five-page checklist to prepare for the event which begins August 6. According to the Joplin Globe, many attendees stay in Carthage overnight, camping on or around the campus of the Congregation of the Mother Co-Redemptrix (CMC).
Residents around the CMC campus have been surveyed to determine if they will allow campers in their yards. According to the Joplin Globe, some attendees have formed long-time friendships with Carthage residents after camping in their yards each year.
Residents also enjoy the sights of the festival and eat in the food tents set up by Catholic churches and organizations to raise money.