3^rd Annual

Oktoberfest on the Minneapolis Riverfront

presented by CVS/pharmacy and City Pages

Münich in Minneapolis Returns - September 12-13, 2008

Join the German-style fun on Friday, September 12, 4:00-9:00PM and Saturday, September 13 from 10:00AM-9:00PM. 

The cobblestone streets of historic Main Street, part of Minneapolis’ spectacular Riverfront District will provide the perfect backdrop for Oktoberfest on the Riverfront.  The festival will celebrate the rich history and German heritage of the surrounding community including traditional polka bands, dancing and of course, food!  Patrons will enjoy the beauty of the Mississippi River, musical entertainment, games, crafts and delicious German food and a variety of beer.  Admission and music will be free for all ages.  A variety of authentic food, beverages and crafts will be available for purchase.   A portion of proceeds from the event will be donated to the St. Paul Jaycees.

Oktoberfest on the Riverfront is modeled after the original Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany; its annual celebration is the third full weekend in September.  This event will be held outdoors on Friday, September 12, 4 pm – 9 pm and Saturday, September 13, noon – 9 pm along the Mississippi River at St. Anthony Main, Main Street, SE, Minneapolis.  Event held rain or shine.  

Willkommen to Family Fun. In addition to the traditional food, beverage and atmosphere, patrons attending Oktoberfest on the Riverfront will enjoy traditional games such as the barrel roll and Hammerschlagen (nail driving). The Germanic-American Institute's Kindergarten featuring games and activities for all ages!  German style musical entertainment includes the S.G. Edelweiss dancers, Alpensterne, The Squires Band, Bill Koncar Band and more. 

Check out these Hot Dogs!  Join Dachshunds Making a Difference (DMAD) in Oktoberfest's inaugural Dachshund Dash!  These wonderful wieners will race their way into your heart as they dash through our specially-designed course.  They'll be belly-bumpin' over soft hurdles and strutting their stuff in costume - it'll be a ball! 

Oktoberfest is presented by Minneapolis Riverfront Arts & Events and SRO Productions.  A portion of proceeds from the event benefit the St. Paul Jaycees.  Vendor information, parking, directions and additional event details can be found at www.minneapolisoktoberfest.com and www.stanthonymain.com.

FYI:

It may be called "Oktoberfest" but it traditionally starts in September.  It all began with a wedding—in October 1810. On the 12th day of October that year, Crown Prince Ludwig (later King Ludwig I of Bavaria) wed Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen and held a big party near Munich. It was so popular, that the party took place again the following year, prompting the start of a traditional German celebration that has become world famous. Oktoberfest has been celebrated every year since 1811. The massive Bavarian Volksfest begins each year on a Saturday in September and ends 16 days later on the first Sunday in October.