A Sister Act Full of Fun

Nuns for Fun will put on its sister act for the 38th annual Valyermo Fall Festival, a seemingly appropriate venue for this group of comedic and swinging singers of hymns and show tunes. What used to be a modest little crafts fair put on by the good Benedictine monks of Pearblossom has exploded into an annual extravaganza, with more than 80 attractions on the 720-acre ranch-monastery grounds.

Festivities, along with the singing nuns, include a dance celebration, two art exhibits, craft demonstrations, boutiques, new- and used-book stalls, a children’s farm, art workshops, country music, food booths and several full-size restaurants (sit-down dinners and classical music, $13). More than 1,500 ceramic plaques designed by artist Farther Maur--and made by the monks in their studio on the abbey grounds--will be sold.

The event takes place Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. (gates open 9 a.m.-6 p.m.). For church-goers making the drive, Catholic Masses will be held all day Sunday. Saint Andrew’s Abbey, 31001 N. Valyermo Road, Valyermo (in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, near Pearblossom in Antelope Valley). Free baby-sitting provided. Free admission; parking, $3. (805) 944-2178.