Octoberfest at the Centennial Barn

The Centennial Barn’s Octoberfest officially dates back to 2010, but its roots actually go much deeper – all the way back to ancient times of thanksgiving for a good harvest through the Christian 'Loaf Mass' (Farmers made loaves of bread from the fresh wheat crop which were given to the local church as the Communion bread during a special service thanking God for the harvest.) to the present day.

Although this is only its third year, over 1300 people attended. Moreover, the Franciscan Ministries, Inc scheduled their “Pig Roast” to coincide with the Barn’s Octoberfest this year, selling a great meal to the participants and adding to the celebration.

A marvelous mixture of fun, games, differing cultures, vendors’  booths and children’s entertainment helped to make the celebration a real community event. There were pony rides and hay rides to be had – and the Bhutanese and Sudanese communities added cultural dances and no fewer than five bands offered music throughout the day. Arts and crafts, face painting, handmade jewelry and original paintings, weavings, baskets – and good fellowship – marked the day as Sisters and community members mingled. Families ate at the pig roast (with apple dumplings for dessert!) and took their children down to a special play area filled with awesome inflatable ‘rides.’

[In gratitude to Ruthy Trusler for the beautiful photos]

Associate Leah Curtin