It was a sold out event and the diners gathering at the Escalon Community Center on Thursday were happy to be there. Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a traditional corned beef and cabbage dinner, members of the Escalon Lions Club hosted the event and saw a huge crowd turn out for the festivities.

There was music provided by Golden Bough member Paul Espinoza of Modesto, going solo for the evening as opposed to performing with the group; there were plenty of raffle items to take chances on, and the smell of traditional Irish fare, corned beef and cabbage, greeted diners checking in.

Plates included the corned beef, cabbage, potatoes and carrots and there was also a dessert course, along with a variety of beverages available.

A drive-thru dinner option was offered as well, and a line of cars was evident at the Community Center as residents stopped in for the to-go meals.

A team of Lions Club members kept the food coming, with several CSF, California Scholarship Federation, student members from Escalon High School also volunteering at the event.

Overall, said Lions Club officials, the meal ran smoothly, the crowd was lively, the music was good and everyone seemed to enjoy the opportunity to get out and socialize for the evening.