A fabulous time was had by all at the Rotary Club of Concord’s second annual Oktoberfest! Once again, the Rotary Club of Concord organized and hosted an Oktoberfest themed fundraiser at Verrill Farm, and ticket sales were up, the bands were great, and the beer was flowing! The Mad Bavarian Brass Band started off the day with Oompah Cheer by performing Oktoberfest classics, “Ein Prosit” and “Roll Out the Barrel”. The Somerville Symphony Orkestar graced us once again with their high-energy horns. And the crowd was treated to great rock n roll from Eliza and the Organix, and two of the 6 members of the iconic local band of artists, Jaggery! The beer tent was full of fabulous local vendors, such as Concord’s own Salt Box Kitchen, Jack’s Abby, Far from the Tree Cider, Rapscallions, and Sweet Dreams – just to name a few. Verrill Farm cooked up an array of traditional Oktoberfest fare. And food trucks Empenada Dada, and Let’s Roll Egg Rolls fed the crowd with their unique and delicious offerings. Reasons to be Cheerful and Sweetest Batch Cupcakes provided desert for those who didn’t get their fill at the pie-eating contest.
This was a true family friendly event! Children’s activities such as a bouncy house, hula hooping, a special performance from magician, Peter O’Malley, and pumpkin decorating kept kids of all ages happy and entertained.
The best part about Oktoberfest was that it was all done to raise funds for Shelter Box! Shelter Box is extremely busy providing emergency shelter, along with a supply of tools necessary for survival to those who have been forced out of their homes due to natural disaster. In the aftermath of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, Shelter Box is in great need of support so that they can reach as many victims of these devastating storms as possible. As President of the Rotary Club of Concord, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all who bought tickets, sponsored this event, gave to Shelter Box, volunteered, or joined us as a vendor! Because of your contributions, life will be a bit easier for those who are facing extreme hardships, and the beautiful town of Concord is even more vibrant and full of life than it was before the launch of this event!
Yours in Service,
Leigh Ann Crimmings
Rotary Club of Concord
President, 2017-2018