The month of October witnesses the annual return of a favorite tradition here in Southwest Florida. And, no, I am not talking about the synchronized journey south by our region's part-time residents. Instead, the last two weekends in October are best remembered for the celebration of Oktoberfest by the German-American Social Club of Cape Coral.
This year's festivities are the 26th annual version of this popular event, which is held at the spacious outdoor facilities of the German-American Social Club at 2101 SW Pine Island Road in Cape Coral.
Last weekend saw three diverse nights of family fun come to the Cape and this weekend is sure to bring another three as well. The celebration of Oktoberfest re-opens on Friday, October 28 from 4:00pm to Midnight and continues on Saturday, October 29 from Noon to Midnight and Sunday, October 30, from Noon to 9:00pm.
Cape Coral's Oktoberfest prominently features a giant tent to house the merriment and a picturesque outdoor biergarten that comfortably holds visitors. Both are great spots to socialize, while enjoying tasty German food -- including favorites like bratwurst and schweinhaxen -- and robust imported German beer, such as Warsteiner.
Each spot is also an ideal setting for toe-tapping to an array of musical performers throughout the event. This year's feature band is D'Hirschegger from Austria. The group, which traces its roots back to initial founding in 1923, includes over 20 musicians and this will be their third appearance in Southwest Florida. Music at Oktoberfest is sure to last well into the night, as the boisterous crowd comes to life on the dance floor as the sun goes down.
Other highlights of the event include Sunday morning church service, a kids' carnival area with rides and food, raffles and giveaways, vendors, the appearance of the lovely Ms. Oktoberfest, and much more. On Saturday night at 9:00pm, a popular drawing will be held to award a lucky winner a free round trip airline ticket to Germany.
Adult admission can be purchased at the gate for $6 and children under 12 years old are admitted without charge.
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