By Rich Larson
Preparations for the annual Defeat of Jesse James Days celebration might be keeping Northfielders busy, but the City of Dundas is preparing to celebrate the arrival of fall one weekend later with the fourth annual Dundas Oktoberfest, set for Saturday, September 19.
The community festival will run from noon until 6:30 p.m., with many of the attractions that have helped make the event a success returning this year. Dundas City Administrator Jenelle Teppen said organizers have become comfortable putting the festival together after three years, while continuing to expand its offerings.
The Oktoberfest car show will return for a second year, coordinated by Dawn’s Corner Bar, and is expected to be larger than last year. The celebration will also feature a variety of vendors, food and beverages, carriage rides and a 35-piece Bavarian band.
Families will find several activities geared toward children, including pumpkin painting and the opportunity to decorate traditional German-style hats. A small train will also be on hand to take children on rides around the festival area.
Traditional Oktoberfest attire is encouraged, and Teppen said festival-goers can expect to see plenty of lederhosen throughout the day.
While the event has continued to grow, Teppen said its emphasis remains on bringing the Dundas community together.
“It still is a homegrown event,” she said. “We’re all very invested. The board is very invested in Dundas, and I think the greatest thing about it is you gather on the corner of Railway and Hester that Saturday and you see people from across Dundas.And it’s great to see everyone come out. Kids, families, grandparents; it’s a perfect day.”
The celebration will continue after the official Oktoberfest activities conclude. Dawn’s Corner Bar will host Dundas After Dark beginning at 8 p.m., featuring a street dance on Railway Street.
Dundas Oktoberfest debuted four years ago and quickly established itself as an annual community celebration. This year’s festival is scheduled for Saturday, September 19, from noon until 6:30 p.m.
Rich Larson is owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
