By Rich Larson
Downtown Dundas will take on a distinctly Bavarian feel Saturday as the fourth annual Dundas Oktoberfest brings a full day of music, food, drinks and family activities to the community.
Oktoberfest runs from noon to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, September 19. Admission and parking are free, and organizers say the event will be held rain or shine under a large festival tent.
The festival began four years ago when Little Prairie United Methodist Church pastor Penny Bonsell and her then-fiancé Tom approached Chapel Brewing owner Tracy Vranich with an idea. Bonsell had experience with a community Oktoberfest, Tom was connected to the Bavarian Music Meisters, Little Prairie could provide the food and Chapel could provide the beer.
Vranich said the idea immediately filled a need for Dundas, which had been without its own signature community festival for several years. A small organizing group came together, and Oktoberfest proved popular from its first year.
Music remains at the center of the celebration. The 35-piece Bavarian Music Meisters will return, along with the Lichtenstein Nine and concertina music. The Music Meisters mix traditional German music with audience participation, dancing and sing-alongs.
Food will include bratwurst and other offerings from Little Prairie United Methodist Church, along with dishes from Ruth’s on Stafford, Martha’s Eats and Treats and other Dundas vendors. Chapel Brewing will provide several beers, while Keepsake Cidery and Vintage Escapes will also be represented. Non-alcoholic options will be available.
The festival is designed for families as well. Free children’s activities sponsored by the City of Dundas include horse-and-wagon rides, a barrel train, pumpkin and hat decorating, face painting and arts and crafts. A makers market and classic car and motorcycle roll-in will also return.
The official Oktoberfest ends at 6:30, but the celebration will continue with an after-party at L&M Bar followed by a street dance at Dawn’s Corner Bar.
Organizers say the growing festival has become a way to showcase Dundas while bringing neighbors and visitors together for what has quickly become one of the community’s signature events.
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
