The tradition of the Hobo Dinner began when my family moved to Monclova in the summer of 1988.

For my parents, my five siblings and I, a new home was major. We we were moving from a tiny three bedroom ranch in the suburbs to a five bedroom, two-story home on a partially-wooded ten acre lot in the country. To my grandpa Ankenbrandt, this meant one thing apparently: party time. And lo, the Hobo DInner was established later that year.

A simple party, the events are fall focused as the party usually takes place in October, and the rules of engagement are easy: bring a dish to share with others, bring your own blanket and chair, and byob. THere is a walk through the woods, lit by luminaries created by yours truly as well as various family members over the years. There is a bonfire next to a reflective pond for a peaceful night under the stars with talkative company. There is a hayride that would take you on a 20-25 minute (?) trip around a very rural (and dark) block. And the cherry on top, kettle-cooked hobo dinners that are boiled at once but individually in knit bags, each consisting of a cabbage wedge, carrots, potatoes, and sausage. Combined with all the dishes brought by party-goers, the evening - even the rained out ones - have always brought the best memories.

Remarkable is the fact that the party has maintained its vibrancy over the years and continues to be celebrated to this day. Although the event is bi-annual now, and major events like weddings or the pandemic have kept us from partying in some years past, the Hobo Dinner is planned to continue once again in the fall of 2025.

Truly, may the joy in celebrating togetherness with family never expire.