MARION — The organizers of Marion Town Party couldn't have ordered better weather to bring such a wide cross section of community to celebrate the town and the people who live in it.

Several hundred people turned out last Saturday in front of Marion Town House on a  comfortably warm afternoon and evening that was filled with conversation, laughter, food, drink and family fun in a community carnival-like atmosphere.

Country-style decorated tables with welcoming sunflower centerpieces and clear bulb lights hung over community-style picnic table seating as families and friends met in a  friendly festive environment. People spent the evening dining on fresh grilled seafood, fried onions and french fries, salads, finger desserts, beer, wine, popcorn and cotton candy, and generally enjoying each other's company.

There were inflatable children's games, a face painter, a rock climbing wall, and rides on the Marion Fire Fighters Association's antique fire truck, a popcorn station manned by Marion Cub Scout Pack 32, and a cotton candy spinning machine that drew long lines.

Some people danced in the street to the tunes played by a DJ and live music by Wareham-based "The Shawn England Band." Local vocalist Michelle Richardson wowed the crowd at the start of the live entertainment with her soulful singing of the National Anthem, followed by resident Tom Shire reading some original poetry.

Marion Town Party Committee Chairman Chris Berg thanked all the parities involved  with putting on the all-volunteer event, from Marion Dept. of Public Works, Marion Fire Dept., Marion Harbormaster, Marion Social Club, Tabor Academy, and town employees, individuals, businesses and community groups who donated their time and resources to make the annual a success.

"Without everybody's help we couldn't make this happen," he said.

"It's a tremendous tradition for the town," Steve Gonsalves, a member of the town party committee said of the annual town party. "It's an honor and a privilege to continue a tradition that the VFW started years ago. To see a lot of young faces and new faces says it all. This is our community. Marion is a family. And this is for the people of the town, our family."

Proceeds from the food and drink concessions will benefit local needs and Bird Island Restoration Project. The year's event was sponsored by the Marion Fire Fighters Association and Marion Harbormaster Dept.

The evening ended not long after dark with a bonfire behind the Town House.

Organizers say there are plans to hold another town party next year. Anyone who would like to get involved or contribute in some way is encouraged to call Chris Berg at 508-776-1615, Steve Gonsalves at 508-264-5852 or Donna Hemphill at 508-748-3515. You may also email to: dhemphill@marionma.gov.