This year’s Oktoberfest, in Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, was a hive of activity as happy children decorated pumpkins, had their faces painted, and played tennis for the first time. Parents proudly watched, helped and took pictures.

Other neighbors relaxed with brats and brews from Dag’s Patio Cafe, purchased raffles for prizes generously donated by local business owners, and strolled with canines in tow.

This annual occasion embodies New York City community life at its best: neighbors young and old, from many national and cultural backgrounds, at play and at ease.

Oktoberfest was sponsored by Friends of Dag Hammarskjold Plaza in cooperation with the NYC Department of Parks, the Vanderbilt YMCA, and Dag’s Patio Cafe. The day’s many volunteers typified what neighbors do for each other in NYC.