The 45th annual Martinsville Oktoberfest drew crowds to Uptown on Oct. 3 despite cloudy skies and cooler temperatures.
Businesses, vendors, charitable organizations and entertainers filled the streets, with activities including rides, live music and food trucks. The traditional beer garden also returned.
“It was a good time for the whole family to come out. There’s something for everyone going on. Hit the kids’ ride. Do some shopping,” said Kimberly Keller-Bonacci, Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce Uptown entrepreneurial development manager.
Organizers had been concerned the weather might affect attendance.
“We were a little bit nervous that the community may not support it, given the clouds today, but this is Martinsville-Henry County. The community has shown up. They are really coming out for the event. I mean, despite the cooler temperatures,” Keller-Bonacci said.
Food trucks had waits of 20 to 30 minutes as customers lined up throughout the event.
Uptown businesses including Be Wiched Diner, Studio 107 and The Ground Floor participated, with tables set up or specials offered inside their businesses.
New businesses, including 13 & Thorn and Seek First Christian Clothing, also participated. An artist alley gave visitors another place to browse, while visitors to the Piedmont Arts booth could paint rocks.
The next Uptown event will be Uptown Trick-or-Treat, scheduled for Oct. 30 from 4 to 6 p.m. Streets will be closed for the event, with participating businesses giving out candy to children. The event is free and open to children ages 12 and younger.
