When in doubt, wear lederhosen. After all, said Jeff Guertler, "They're the most comfortable suede shorts I own."

A member of the Alpenblumen Bavarian Folk Dancers, Guertler returned to Marion on Saturday for the second annual Oktoberfest.

The Marion Masons hosted the community event and fundraiser at the VFW again this year.

"It's going to be a continuing event. We've had a wonderful time, and it's really helped our charity," said Dale Jones.

Jones co-chaired the traditional German celebration with Bruce Rocha Sr.

Almost halfway through the event, Rocha said the attendance was higher than last year, and the food was even better.

"We went to great lengths to get authentic German food," he said.

Traditional music and dancing were also part of the day. The Alpenblumen Musikanten entertained with folk music as the dancers hit the floor.

Guertler's wife, Elvalicia, and daughter, Abigail, joined him on the dance floor with the rest of the traditional dance group. This time of year, the family, including their son who could not attend Saturday's event, spends most weekends at Oktoberfests around Southern New England.

"I've been doing it for four years," said Abigail, 8. "The best part is traveling and meeting new people."

Elvalicia added, "It's a good way to spend time with the family."

That was exactly what John McLaughlin thought, too.

Joined by his son, Matt, and 20-month-old grandson, Peter, he said, "We thought the guys would make an afternoon of it."

Families were certainly welcome on Saturday, but one aspect of Oktoberfest was strictly for adults. Jones said there would be a competition to see who could extend their arm the longest while holding a stein full of beer. The winner got a new stein.

And, said Jones, there's no downside to losing.

"Even the loser gets to drink a stein of beer."

Rocha said Oktoberfest was made possible through the VFW for allowing the Masons to hold the event there as well as Eastern Bank for donating funds to make the day possible.