In celebration of Jefferson City's deep German roots, thousands are expected to turn out Friday and Saturday for the 15th annual Oktoberfest, hosted by the Old Munichburg Association.
Event organizer Cathy Zumwalt said the festival offers something for everybody - from the wine and beer garden to the musical entertainment to crafts, games and pony rides at the Kids Korner. The variety, she added, has contributed to the event's longevity. Admission is free.
A ceremonial keg tapping will be new to Oktoberfest this year, reflective of the festivals conducted in Germany, Zumwalt said. Jefferson City Mayor Carrie Tergin will do the keg tapping honors and take the first sip. The keg will then move to the Muenchberg Beer Garden for others to enjoy. The beer garden opens 4:30 p.m. Friday, which is also the start of the event.
A traditional German dinner will be served at the same time at Central United Church of Christ's dining hall. The meal will include pot roast, mashed potatoes and gravy, sauerkraut, bread, German dessert and a drink at $10 for adults, $6 children ages 6-12 and free for children 5 and under. Fechtel Beverage will provide the beer selections and wines will be served from Westphalia Vineyards, Canterberry Hill, Serenity Valley, Summit Wine and Giggling Grapes.
Oktoberfest's most popular highlight - the Dachshund Derby - will be back this year and is expected to attract 60 short-legged, long-bodied canines. Dog-themed attractions will precede the race, including a dachshund costume contest. The fastest dogs will receive first, second and third place trophies.
"Just watching those little wiener dogs run - it's hilarious," Zumwalt said.
The complete Oktoberfest schedule is as follows:
Friday, Sept. 25
•"‚4:30-7:30 p.m.: German dinner served at Central United Church of Christ dining hall and Muenchberg Beer Garden
•"‚4:30-5:15 p.m.: "MOstly Opera" performs
•"‚5:30 p.m.: The Loehnig Family German Band performs
•"‚6:30 p.m.: Cedar Hill Elementary German Club performs with Loehnig Family German Band
Saturday, Sept. 26
•"‚10 a.m.: General festival open with blacksmith demonstrations as well as craft and food vendors
•"‚10 a.m.: Mid-MO Old Car Club Show at West Dunklin and Broadway Street;
Washington Street Main Stage
•"‚10:30 a.m.: Ceremonial keg tapping
•"‚11 a.m. to 2 p.m.: "Keota Band"
•"‚2-3 p.m.: "Mulekicker Cloggers"
•"‚3-6 p.m.: "Spontaneous Serendipity"
Muenchberg beer/wine garden (Prairie Farms warehouse lot)
•"‚10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Brats and hot dogs served, and beer and wine tasting
Kids Korner (Hawthorn Bank Lot)
•"‚Starting at 10 a.m.: Crafts, games, pony rides, magician and juggler, balloon artist and knockerball games
Dunklin Street Dachshund 500 Arena
•"‚10:30 a.m.: Missouri Highway Patrol K-9
•"‚11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Dachshund Derby registration
•"‚11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Ann Gafke Teacher's Pet Drill Team/Dog Show
•"‚1 p.m.: Costume contest
•"‚Dachshund Derby will follow costume contest
Zumwalt said the hard work of volunteers is making Oktoberfest possible, and all proceeds will go to improving Jefferson City's German south side area.
"It's a great day to celebrate the German south side of Jefferson City," Zumwalt said.
For more information, check out oldmunichburg.com.