37th annual Edition of Galveston Islands Oktoberfest

From 37th annual Edition of Galveston Islands Oktoberfest Website:

Galveston's premier fall festival the 37th Annual Island Oktoberfest kicks off Friday evening, October 26 from 5-11pm; and continues Saturday, October 27 from 11 am 11 pm. This fun, family weekend will feature continuous live entertainment on two stages, authentic German food and libations, Cake Wheel, fine arts, crafts and gifts; an exciting auction, fun, family and expanded children's activities and much more. Oktoberfest held on the grounds of and streets adjacent to First Lutheran Church, 24th and Winnie in historic downtown Galveston.. Admission is FREE. German costumes ENCOURAGED!

Island Oktoberfest, hosted by First Evangelical Lutheran Church and co-sponsored by Del Papa Distributing Company, will open Friday evening with themed-Bier Garten venues-featuring a variety of both German and domestic brews and a variety of German-style wines from nearby Haak Vineyards. New this year, Oktoberfest will host a special wine-tasting event with Haak Winery and a beer-tasting event with Del Papa.

In addition to great music and dancing, there will be superb food and drink including smoked sausage, bratwurst, knockwurst, and "Wurstabendessen"- a sausage dinner comprised of German-style and Polish style Wurst with all the traditional German side dishes. This special German Dinner will be available both Friday evening and on Saturday. For a sweet finale, homemade Helmut's strudel (freshly baked on site), will be offered in addition to a variety of tempting home-made desserts specially prepared by congregation members from recipes handed down from generation to generation. Hand-made pretzels, freshly-popped popcorn, and a variety of soft drinks will also be sold at the festival.

The historic and beautifully-renovated circa 1860 Lyceum will again be open from 5-9pm Friday evening and from 11am-7pm on Saturday with vendors showcasing exceptional hand-crafted arts, crafts, and gift items for those festival goers eager to get a head start on holiday shopping. Because Oktoberfest continues to be one of the vendors' most enjoyable and popular venues, regular attendees can look forward to shopping at their long-time favorite booths- each featuring Christmas and other special gift items. As well, shoppers always look forward to knowing that their favorite vendors have returned to showcase their best products.