Coplay Saengerbund, 205 S. Fifth St., held its annual Stiftungsfest June 23 to celebrate its 107th anniversary and celebrate its accomplishments.

Stiftungsfest is a German term that translates to a “foundation celebration” or an “anniversary celebration.” The celebration typically involves entertainment, music, food and remembering the past. It is designed to promote a sense of community by coming together to honor the organization and its accomplishments.

Despite the hot weather, there was abundant gemutlichkeit among the attendees. Gemutlichkeit is a German word that means “geniality and a feeling or atmosphere of warmth and friendliness.”

The program began with the playing of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and the Burgenland Landeshymne, the regional anthem of the Austrian state of Burgenland. This was followed by four chorus groups, including the Coplay Saengerbund Chorus.

The musical entertainment host was Emil Schanta Band. When the band began playing Austrian and German music, revelers streamed to the dance floor.

Kevin Fritz, Saengerbund president, said he was pleased with the event. He has served as president for nine years and has been an officer for about 45 years, he said. Another volunteer and accomplished Saengerbund cook and caterer was Elsie Mondschein. She and Fritz have a combined 100 years serving the Saengerbund.

In 1917, a small group of Austrian immigrants came together in Coplay to establish a private social club. The primary purpose of the club was to have a place for Austrian immigrants to socialize and promote their heritage, culture and music.