Vocal, Instrumental and Orchestrion Concert

“Two grand orchestras! Magnificent illuminations! Splendid Fireworks.”

 “For the first time: German National melodies and Zukunftsmusik will be played.”

“Never since the lion Park was formed by the industrious and enterprising Emanuel Bernheimer, did such an array of beauty and wealth ever present itself as was there last night. It was the Arion German Festival night, and every year the German element of New York City and suburbs determine to observe this favorite and venerated festival with becoming éclat and respect. From the hour of 4 p. m. until dark the vehicles continued to arrive, until the capacious hotel and Belvidere, erected by Mr. Falk appeared as one living mass of human beings.   Not less than 5,000 persons were present. The Hotel and Belvidere were beautifully decorated with the American flag and the ensigns of all nations, while Chinese lanterns and torch lights were profusely suspended all around the buildings, ready to be lit at a moment’s notice. Entrance was obtained by ticket, and in order that no intruder might gain access to the assemblage, Mr. Falk took care to have sentries with the ‘guns upon their shoulders,’ placed at the various entrances to the Belvidere, dressed in military uniform. The arrangements were perfect. The festival was inaugurated at 8 o’clock, at which hour the Belvidere appeared in a blaze of glory. The arrivals continued up to 12, and it would be almost impossible to give even a faint picture of the happy and exhilarating scene there presented. Amusements of the most innocent and delightful character were indulged in. The Committee had an excellent band in attendance. Quadrilles, gallopades, waltzes, &c., were first in order. Feasting, lager, and speeches followed. Then a moonlight procession took place, which was well conducted and grand in effect. The festivities lasted until an early hour this morning.  It was a glorious celebration of the Arion Society. Not a single accident occurred to mar the harmony that prevailed from beginning to end.”

“Certainly the Eighth Avenue Railroad Company is to be commended for its strict attention to the wants of those who wished to arrive home before morning.  There was one car every hour and a half, and this to accommodate the hundred who were leaving hourly.  Not only this, but when the car did finally start it went at the rate of a mile in three hours.  It is on record that a family who left the Park at thirty minutes past two A. M. arrived in Brooklyn at thirty minutes past five the same morning.  A man who started at the same time will reach his home next year.”