Every August, something incredible happens on a hillside near Verbena. More than 20,000 people gather to hear some of the most well known Christian bands and speakers from around the country.

It’s called En Fuego, Spanish for “on fire,” a term that perhaps best describes the atmosphere when thousands of teenagers, college students and even adults come together in the name of Christ.

“If you’ve never been, it’s really hot, but it’s worth the sweat,” event spokesman Barry Baker said at a luncheon held Thursday at Clanton First Baptist Church to promote the event.

This year’s En Fuego is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 29 at the site located just off County Road 23. Gates open at 11 a.m., and the festival starts at noon.

The entertainment lineup includes Family Force 5, Superchic[k], Decemberadio, Thalon, Eleventyseven, After Edmund, Hello August, Nine Lashes, and LP. Also appearing will be speaker Tony Nolan.

“Reaching our kids through music is one of the strongest avenues to reach them,” said Mark Prater, chief meteorologist with CBS 42 News, the guest speaker at Thursday’s luncheon.

Prater joked he would do his best to bring good weather this year, as in 2008 En Fuego was cut short due to high winds and rain.

He encouraged everyone to spread the word about En Fuego, which is a free event because of the continuous support from local churches, businesses and individuals. All of the funds raised go back into the event. It takes approximately $100,000 to put on En Fuego each year.

Jon Walden of Christian radio station WDJC said the quality of music at En Fuego is equal to anything one would find in the secular world of entertainment.

“This is something that’s just as good as the world has, but we package it with a message of hope in Jesus Christ,” he said.

For more information, visit www.enfuegoinfo.com.