Hundreds of Cambridge's senior citizens gathered in Tercentenary Theater last Tuesday to sing, dance and meet local politicians at the 24th annual Harvard Yard Picnic.

"It's a great way to get the elderly out of their homes for a day of relaxation, fun, and dancing," said Theresa Carrabino, a Cambridge resident who attended the event.

"I love the entertainment and the gifts they give us," added Betty Schmidt, a Cambridge senior at the picnic. "Most of the senior citizens in Cambridge always come."

The event was co-sponsored by the Cambridge Mayor's office and the office of University President Neil L. Rudenstine. And every August, the event attracts hundreds to the Yard.

"We hand out 1000 free tickets to Cambridge seniors, which are available through the two big senior centers," said Anlee Foster, assistant to the mayor. "The city also provides transportation to and from the senior centers."

This year, seniors danced and sang along as city council members and candidates held hands on the steps of Memorial Church and sang well-known songs like "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands."

After the sing along, seniors were entertained by Rita O'Shea's Irish Step Dancers. Many local stores donated gifts for a raffle held at the end of the picnic.

Since local elections are just a few months away, aspiring politicians were out in force.

"Personal contact is a very important part of the campaign," said Marjorie Decker, a candidate for City Council. "Seniors understand the importance of voting, and they vote."

Decker said she thought seniors were among the best-informed members of the community since issues like affordable housing are important to seniors who have lived in Cambridge all their lives and do not want to be evicted from their homes.

Larry Clinton, a member of David Maher's council campaign also said seniors are key to election results.

"Seniors vote heavy in the precincts where they live," he said. "They even have voting booths in their buildings." As a result, Clinton said, seniors get out to vote even if it rains or snows.

Although candidates are prohibited from distributing campaign material at the events, Decker said that many candidates violated the rule.

A similar picnic is held inside at MIT in June or July. Both events provide seniors with a picnic lunch and a gift, such as the tote bag distributed at Tuesday's event.