Oktoberfest Brings German Culture and Celebration Back to Columbus for Fifth Year

Oktoberfest Returns to Columbus for an Exciting Fifth Year

Columbus is buzzing with excitement as Oktoberfest makes its return for the fifth year, promising a delightful weekend filled with live music, delicious food, and authentic German traditions. Local favorites, Munson and Brothers, will be the heart of the festivities, and it sounds like they have some amazing plans lined up!

An Authentic Experience

This year’s Oktoberfest is going to be even bigger and better thanks to the addition of sponsors. This not only means we can expect bigger bands and bigger acts but also a richer experience that stays true to its German roots. It’s awesome that it keeps growing and becoming something where we’re able to experience the culture together and bring a little bit of fun to our side of the town.

Kickoff with a Toast

The weekend festivities kick off on Friday at 5 p.m. with a hearty prost (that’s German for “cheers”) led by Mayor Keith Gaskin. Following the toast, traditional polka music will fill the air, starting with The Delta Krauts at 5 p.m. If you’re in the mood for more music later on, Payton Aldridge and his band will take the stage from 8 to 11 p.m. It’s going to be a lively start to the weekend!

Races and Arts Fest on Saturday

Saturday is packed with even more activities! The day kicks off with races benefiting the Columbus Arts Council, starting at 10 a.m. Participants can join in for a one-mile beer run or a beer 5K—talk about running for a cause! And for those who might not be fans of beer, there will be delicious doughnuts available for runners who prefer something sweet.

While the races wind down, the Burns Bottom Arts Festival will kick off nearby. With over 30 vendors setting up shop from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., this festival will be a fantastic spot for local arts and crafts lovers to find unique handmade items. It’s just really cool to be able to do that downtown and really be able to focus on the art. Plus, there’s something for everyone, including activities for kids!

Live Entertainment All Day

As the arts festival rolls on, the music will be flowing too! Starting at 11 a.m., get ready to enjoy fantastic performances throughout the day, featuring the Shane Tubbs Band at 11 a.m., followed by Jerry Wayne Beard & Friends at 2 p.m., and Keith and Margie at 5 p.m. The fun continues well into the night with The Rust Bucket Roadies wrapping things up from 8 to 11 p.m.

Family Fun Meets Adult Enjoyment

Although Saturday starts with family-friendly events, the evening is designed to cater more to adults. It’s a good plan as the atmosphere shifts.

Delicious German Food and Beer

Throughout the weekend, attendees can savor a variety of traditional German foods and drinks. With 15 different types of Oktoberfest beers—mostly from local breweries—there’s plenty to wet your whistle! Plus, you can munch on pretzels, kraut, and much more as you soak in the volunteer spirit of the town.

A Taste of Germany in Columbus

There is personal inspiration from a recent trip to Munich, Germany, last year at the start of Oktoberfest. There’s enthusiasm to bring those cultural experiences back home. Wearing lederhosen is encouraged, inviting everyone to get into the festive spirit!

As Oktoberfest approaches, Columbus prepares for a weekend filled with cheer, culture, and community.