As people got off the shuttle bus the first drops of rain came down, but it did not last, although drizzle was felt several other times throughout the day.

The 14th annual Taste of Hamburg-er Festival, in downtown Hamburg, took place Sept. 2 with streets closed to provide a site for vendors and activity groups to set up.

The Haines family - Justin, Ashley, Robert and Todd - were eating burgers and fries from Spuds of Kutztown.

Robert Haines said they always dress up for the festival and enjoy the day. Many people wore hamburger hats such the one worn by Todd Haines.

Blazing Swine Barbecue pulled pork and brisket were cooked in huge roasters. At the time it seemed the pork was more popular. Tom and Brian Whiston are the pit masters.

Christ Evangelical Free Church, Route 183, Bethel, was giving out bags for people to carry any items they bought.

The church is a half mile north of I-78.

An open gym night is offered 7-9 p.m. Mondays.

Rocky and Roberta DeCarlo of Oreland have friends and neighbors sample their new flavors of hot sauce.

The first sauces were made in 1982 but it did not become commercial until 2011.

Only those approved by tasters are produced.

The Smith Homestead was selling the biggest buns and mini pies. Clayton Davies told his parents he chose the biggest big bun.

The stands selling hamburgers had signs out requesting people vote for them in the 37 different varieties entered in the festival.

Dave Hendricks and friends said they were “just working our way through and tasting some burgers.” They were from Allentown and were deciding which of Grumpy’s burgers was worth tasting.

Peggy Szostek of Schuylkill County made machine-embroidered hand towels and doll clothes. She said it began as a hobby.

Olde 22, a folk and rock music group was sponsored by Patriot Collision Center. There were seven different music groups with chairs set up so people could take a break from walking and enjoy the music.

The Dietrich family watched from their front porch. They said they had been there other years but this is the first year the festival reached out to their street.

Kathy Dietrich said she doesn’t mind the crowds because they are quiet. Cole Dietrich said he looks forward to it every year.

The men’s ministry of Living Stone Fellowship Church, New Tripoli, was selling watermelon. Profits go to support church functions. A group of 12 are going to Ecuador to help rebuild in certain areas where the earthquake did damage, said Joel Masiko.

The Rock School had instruments on hand for people to try. They point out how important creative activities such as music are for children.

Grace Bible Church of Hawk Mountain, Routes 61 and 895, offers free necessities such as clothing 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Wednesdays The church sponsors Christian Engineering Camps for children.

Deitsch Eck restaurant, Lenhartsville, was the People’s Choice winner.