"This is a picnic in the cemetery," said Kathy Hohenadel, describing Fête en Noir. "And we ask people to dress in black if they can."

Fête en Noir is a fundraiser for the Mount Bethel Cemetery, noted Hohenadel, who is a board member of the Friends of Mount Bethel Cemetery and the cemetery itself. The event will be held on Friday, Sept. 9, at the cemetery, 700 Locust St. Entrance to the grounds will begin at 5:30 p.m., and the event will run from 6 to 9 p.m.

Seating is limited for the Fête en Noir, and a discount will be available for tickets purchased through Wednesday, Aug. 31. Participants should bring their own picnic to enjoy at tables set up throughout the front half of the cemetery. "We supply tables, chairs and linens," Hohenadel explained. "People can bring a canopy if they want to, or additional tables for their food. They can use their imagination to make the event as downhome or a chic as they want it to be."

This is the fourth year for the Fête en Noir, and this year's event will feature live music from Over Easy. The band performs classic party rock 'n' roll music.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the cemetery and will be used for maintenance and lawncare, among other expenses, Hohenadel stated. The cemetery is the final resting place for many people who played key roles in Columbia's history. It's full of interesting statuary and striking grave markers, she said, adding that Fête participants are encouraged to walk around and explore the grounds. "It's just a fun time to enjoy a picnic, socialize, dance to some great music and chat with your neighbors," she said.

The Fête en Noir is sponsored by the Columbia Fraternal Association, the Foresters of America Court Susquehanna 235, the American Legion Paul Revere Leber Post 372, the Columbia Lions Club, Kleen-Rite Corporation, Melanie B. Scheid Funeral Directors, Nikolaus & Hohenadel, Sunsnappers and Truist Bank. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact the Friends of Mount Bethel Cemetery at 717-681-6768 or friendsofmtbethel@gmail.com.