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With new name, Oktoberfestival ushers in changes for annual event
BOARDMAN
An annual arts and crafts festival is coming back to Boardman Park with a slight change to its name.
The 36th annual Boardman Rotary Oktoberfestival is set for 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday; the event had been called “Oktoberfest” until this year.
“This has never been an event that has alcohol so we changed the name the tiniest bit so we can show it’s an outdoor festival that does not reflect the traditional meaning of Oktoberfest,” said Shannon Tirone, an event co-chairwoman.
Co-chairwoman Shelly LaBerto said the new name also reflects changes in what is offered.
“We saw it as an evolution and reflection of changes that have taken place. Although we’ve been calling it an arts and craft fair, we’re starting to see a trend of local artists producing fine crafts and art. It’s not just wooden cutout pumpkins; there’s a large array of items,” LaBerto said.
More than 150 vendors are expected from artisan, commercial and nonprofit organizations. Some vendors will demonstrate their craft, including glass blowing and iron working. A food court will be set up in the park and offer traditional carnival and fair food.
Oktoberfestival admission is $3 for people 12 and older.
Free and handicapped parking is available on the west side of the park near the Southern Boulevard entrance. Limited off-site parking is available with a shuttle service from the Heart Center of Northeast Ohio parking lot, south of the park.
Admission proceeds benefit Boardman Rotary, which undertakes many service projects each year and works with local nonprofit organizations such as Easter Seals and the Boy Scouts.
“We have 92 members in Boardman Rotary, and it literally takes the entire club to pull it off. This is a one-day event, and every dollar that we raise goes back to the community,” LaBerto said.