Good News Media

By Patrick Halpin, A-Dove Photo and Drone, LLC

On Labor Day, 2026, I was invited to attend the second annual “Bash On The Grass;” a youth-focused Christian outreach sponsored by Calvary Chapel Treasure Valley. Needless to say, the event was impressive. Bash on the Grass is free to everyone and this year’s edition involved 43 vendors and attracted an estimated 1,300 attendees, all taking place at Discovery Park in Meridian. 

According to event organizer Mario Guiza, Bash on the Grass is an annual Labor Day outreach first started in the early 2000’s by their Pastor, Daryl Zachman. Pastor Zachman has a heart for youth and the congregation picked up his vision and expanded it to the rest of the community. Mario told me the vision is basically the same: “to reach the youth for Jesus and encourage harmony with all the local churches as we strive to make Jesus famous.” It also provides a venue for local Christian artists to share their musical gifts with the community.

The music was good, performed by multiple bands and the food looked great too. They even had a skit by a local youth group. And of course, prayer and worship was a major theme throughout the day. I saw so many families with children of all ages having an absolute wonderful time.

Discovery Park, established in 2019, is a massive place, covering approximately 64 acres. The park was PACKED with people! I cannot think of a better place to hold such an event. It has skate boarding, splash park, and even zip-lines are available. Make your plans to attend next year’s event; you won’t be disappointed!

Mario and his team are so thankful for the churches and awesome volunteers that have helped make the first two events a success, but would love to see more churches and individuals get involved to make next year’s event even better. If you or your church have a heart for today’s youth and want to make a difference in their lives, please reach out to Mario at bashonthegrass99@gmail.com. Hope to see you all next year at the “Bash on the Grass, 2027!”