Beer gardens, rock bands and carnival rides are probably not the first images associated with Catholic religion, but those two worlds will come together Friday to help St. Mary School in DeKalb.

The 10th annual St. Mary September Fest will kick off today at 5 p.m. with a concert by Back Country Roads to start at 7 p.m. outside St. Mary School on 210 Gurler Road. The festival will continue on Saturday and Sunday at noon.

Michelle Anderson, chairwoman for the September Fest committee, said despite the flash and flair of the weekend event, it is still rooted in building a strong faith community as all the proceeds go back to the school.