The Orange County Department of Education has announced the launch of Father Fest 2025, a groundbreaking event designed to celebrate and support fathers and father figures across the county.
The event will take place on Saturday, Jan. 25 at the Fullerton Arboretum and will bring together community leaders, educators, fathers and experts to discuss the critical role of fathers in shaping the lives of their children.
Father Fest 2025 aims to provide fathers with the tools, strategies and support they need to succeed and strengthen their families. Additionally, it will provide the opportunity to connect with community organizations, educators and other fathers to share experiences and resources.
The event will be highlighted by keynote speaker Jerry Tello, who has authored numerous articles, videos and curricula addressing fatherhood. He currently works with the Sacred Circles Center to serve families and foster community peace in Whittier, California.
The conference will also offer interactive sessions on a variety of topics, including positive communication, play experience, liberating brown fatherhood and parenting in the digital age. Lunch will be provided afterwards with donations from In-N-Out Burger.
To ensure that fathers can participate for the entirety of the event, free childcare will be available for elementary-aged children. Registration is $125 per person and will be open until Jan. 3. Participants will have access to all session materials and resources through Dec. 31, 2025. For more information or to register, please visit the event website or contact Carlos Zelaya at czelaya@ocde.us. For any specific event questions, contact Janis Price at jprice@ocde.us.