By Madison Butkus
Hometown Weekly Reporter
It was a bustling day recently at the Bellforge Arts Center as the venue hosted two community-favorite events simultaneously. Due to inclement weather at the beginning of October, Culturefest and Oktoberfest were amalgamated into a single, remarkable afternoon.
In contrast to the previous weekend's weather, this Saturday afternoon featured cloudless skies and a pleasant temperature of eighty degrees. The Bellforge grounds teemed with diverse vendors and food trucks, offering items such as paintings, jewelry, cupcakes, Indian cuisine, and more.
Families and friends, once again attired in shorts and t-shirts, gathered around the vendors, some bringing picnic baskets, lawn chairs, and blankets to bask in the beautiful weather. Attendees enjoyed live music from artists like Sista Dee and the Dis N Dat Band, Dzidzor, Rehearsal for Life Youth, Over The Bridge, Cara Brindisi, and Annie Brobst. The initial performances were linked to Culturefest, while the latter half catered to Oktoberfest.
Massachusetts State Representative Marcus Vaughn was also present, hosting a prelude to his second annual "Spooktacular Soiree." Inside the chapel, Vaughn showcased an assortment of jack-o'-lanterns submitted by families or members of different Councils on Aging, providing a glimpse into the building's potential.
Jean Mineo, the Executive Director of Bellforge, circulated among the crowd, ensuring everyone relished the last hurrah of the season. When interviewed about the two-in-one event, Mineo expressed her satisfaction when she stated, “with Culturefest being canceled early on in the month, we didn’t want to lose it altogether. Some of the original performers could change the date, others could not so we worked with what we had. This is also our last event of the season so we thought why not extend the day a little bit and get these two events together. It is not really two separate events anymore, just a longer day for people to enjoy with more musical performances!”
This massive event was the Bellforge’s last of the year and acted as a wrap up to a wonderful summer of events they had. As a whole, they are extremely excited for all that next year will bring from events, to musical performances, and so much more. The newly found appreciation and use of this space has been a great addition to the community, and the Bellforge cannot wait to expand on it!
