You know the annual family-oriented festival in Manteca is fast approaching when you hear about the big white tent.

This is the temporary structure that goes up above the parish grounds of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church along Sierra Street delineating the area that encompasses the main site of the three-day yearly Harvest Festival that will take place on Friday, Sept. 13, to Sunday, Sept. 15.

In the  last three years, the installation of the tent has become about as popular as the multicultural and religious celebration itself. Credit that to the fund-raising effort to raise funds that will help cover the professional installation of the tent.

Like in the past, only a limited number of tickets are offered for purchase — 500 tickets for a donation of $100 each. A total of $17,750 in cash prizes will be awarded to the winning tickets. Plus, each ticket donation will include a free dinner on Friday, Sept. 13 at 6 p.m. in the church gym, which ushers in the weekend when the community comes together for fun, food, and family. The prizes also will be announced and awarded that evening. Winners need not be present to win; however, a ticket buyer must be at least 18 years of age.

Here are the prizes:

Grand prize   $ 10,000

Second prize   $   2,000

Third to Fifth prizes  $   1,000

Sixth to eighth prizes  $   500

Ninth to 13th prizes  $   250

Tickets are now available for purchase at St. Anthony’s Parish and School offices during regular hours, and after weekend Masses. Credit card, cash, or check payments will be accepted.

Prospective winners are reminded that they will be responsible for all applicable taxes.

The harvest festival, the parish’s biggest fund-raiser during the year which has been running for more than half a century, is the Family City’s longest-running community celebration by a single sponsor. Its main attractions are its food booths that include several ethnic delicacies such as Filipino lumpia, Mexican tacos, and regular American fare such as hotdogs. Along with the food are various entertainment featuring local talents.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to show your support for our Parish and its largest fundraiser. It is through your generous contributions that we can continue our mission here at St. Anthony’s Parish,” church pastor, Father Chad Wahl, said in his message to parishioners.

The festival is open to the public. Admission is free.