BY RICHIE DIETRICH

Kicking off what is now a tradition with Wadsworth’s First Fridays this October 5, was Wadsworth’s own approach to the well-known Oktoberfest. Propped all around downtown Wadsworth were tables and stations that helped to give small, local businesses a large amount of attention. There were also many fundraisers to help grow the aforementioned businesses.

Scattered throughout downtown were many people dressed up in their own Halloween costumes, showing their spirit for the spooky holiday well before it comes.

Wadsworth’s Oktoberfest also featured many games and activities for young children to participate in. Whether that be a one-on-one dance with Princess Belle or the Beast, free popcorn to eat, or a bouncy castle to jump around in on the Gazebo Island, many families enjoyed themselves throughout the event.

Also in support of Oktoberfest were two stylists at Main Headquarters Salon, who stationed a small table outside of their business and gave away suckers, temporary tattoos and coupons to anyone who decided to pass by.

“It’s a lot of fun giving back to the community,” said Hannah Deemer. “Just seeing the smiles on kids’ faces when they’re able to get any sucker they want; seeing so many people downtown all at once just really goes to show how much this community cares for one another.”

Wadsworth’s take on the well-known Oktoberfest was an overall success, drawing the attention of many in the community who had not participated in Wadsworth’s First Fridays in the past. Both adults and children alike were able to enjoy themselves, with promotions for local businesses aimed at adults and treats and more for children. Furthermore, the attention brought to local businesses helped bring them to the public eye and achieved to make an already connected community even closer.