Boardman Rotary Oktoberfest draws big crowds

Photo by: Shaiyla Hakeem

Photo

Neighbors | Shaiyla Hakeem .The Boardman Rotary held their 34th annual Oktoberfest Sunday in Boardman Park. Rotarians were spread throughout the fest to help facilitate their largest fundraising event.

The Boardman Rotary sponsored its 34th annual Oktoberfest at Boardman Park on Sunday — the group’s largest fundraiser of the year.

All proceeds raised from the event were deposited into the organization’s community account.

According to Boardman Rotary chairman Bill Sweeney, several community organizations provided financial assistance for the event.

“That money goes only one place — back into the community,” Sweeney said.

More than 300 vendors were on site selling items such as handmade jewelry, festive crafts, mums and food. Community organizations were also present distributing information and raising money for their cause.

“Other non-profits use this event as their fundraiser,” Sweeney said.

The Boardman Spartans Marching Band, under the direction of Thomas Ruggieri, marched through the festival stopping midway to perform for the spectators. The cheerleaders were collecting money for the upcoming Pink Ribbon Cheer Classic at Youngstown State University.

This Oktoberfest featured a few changes from last year’s festival. Free on site parking, including 450 spaces, was available and asphalt walkways circled through the park made vendor access easier.

On average, more than 10,000 people attend the festival. The admission was $3 per person and the festivities lasted from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

“It was not a bad turnout for what we got for weather,” Sweeney said. “We are pleased.”