STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Hundreds of Staten Islanders lined the streets of Historic Richmond Town for a day of family fun, with all proceeds benefitting veterans in need.
Staten Island Oktoberfest, hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Staten Island and Rolling Thunder, took over Historic Richmond Town on Saturday, with traditional German music, food and beer fueling the annual fall festivities.
The event, now in its fourth year, brings together the community and offers an opportunity to support past members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
“Contrary to popular belief, we are not a motorcycle club. We are a veterans support organization,” said Vinny Perno, president, Rolling Thunder, Chapter 2 New York. “On behalf of the whole chapter, I want to thank everyone today who came out in support of this. With your help, we were able to help to the tune of $20,000 last year for veterans.”
Traditional German folk music was performed live by The Odessa Oompah Band, with each member dressed in lederhosen and traditional garb.
Food ranged from Oktoberfest staples, like bratwurst, sauerkraut, pretzels and potato pancakes, to familiar Staten Island food trucks, like Paul’s Dogs and I Got Balls.
For sweets, Alfonso’s Pastry Shop offered a wide variety of treats, while Eggers drew its normal, massive crowd, as children and parents alike rushed to enjoy the famous ice cream before the cold weather takes over the borough.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a true Oktoberfest without beer, with a mix of traditional German and domestic beers on tap. Every attendee received a voucher for one free beer upon paying the $10 admission, leading to lengthy lines, though excellent service kept things moving rather quickly.