Music, food, dancing, and family fun.

Many people gathered at Chubb Park in Chester September 27 and 28 to celebrate the 16th annual Oktoberfest put on by the the Chester Lions Club. The Chester Lions Club is an organization that was established in 1969 centered on helping the community and giving their profits to charitable organizations. In the past, they have donated to various charities, such as The American Cancer Society, Chester Food Pantry, Jersey Battered Women’s Services, and many more.

Oktoberfest is a festival that began in Munich, Germany in 1810 to celebrate the marriage of prince Ludwig and princess Therese. In 1811, the festival was not put on, due to outrage in Germany after the discovery that the prince participated in the Napoleonic Wars. Eventually, tension died down and they decided to make it an annual event that happens every year no matter what. Now it is celebrated all throughout the world in the September and October months.

Various blue West Morris Central Highlanders for Humanity t-shirts were seen scattered about the event. Some volunteers were preparing food and dishing out popcorn, some were working the spin art booth, and some (like myself) were helping children onto the bouncy slide.

It was a heartwarming experience to have the opportunity to give back to the community. Those running the event were also extremely grateful for our assistance.