By Thane Grauel

WESTPORT — Saugatuck’s streets were crowded Saturday afternoon with people seeing what the town’s riverfront neighborhood had to offer.

It was the 10^th year for the “Slice of Saugatuck” festival, and the weather was perfect.

There were people lining up for food all around the area. And, it seemed by the smell, a conspiratorial abundance of garlic and tomato sauces.

Saugatuck mainstay Viva Zapata served up chicken tacos. Elsewhere, newer eateries offered roasted oysters, pizza, meatballs and a variety of pasta dishes.

Businesses offered beer, wine and cocktails. There were also two beer gardens.

The event is organized by the Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce. Organizers said proceeds would benefit the Gillespie Food Pantry.

Six bands performed. There were inflatable slides and bouncy houses for kids. The chamber said about four dozen businesses participated.

People of all ages climbed aboard the 1953 American LaFrance fire engine outside Saugatuck Hose Company. The Fire Department also had a fire safety training trailer there.

Thane Grauel, executive editor, grew up in Westport and has been a journalist in Fairfield County and beyond more than three decades. Reach him at editor@westportjournal.com. Learn more about us here.