Visit Kilgore | Press Release |
Kilgore Oktoberfest returns for its 10th year on Saturday, October 11, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. in Historic Downtown Kilgore. This milestone year will feature the festival’s signature blend of family-friendly fun, live music, German-inspired food, a free carnival ride, and, of course, beer.
(Top Photo: Longtime Oktoberfest attendee Ruth Tullar (left) will tap the ceremonial keg Saturday, likewise celebrating the memory of her dedicated dance partner, the late Glenn Breazeale.)
The event includes fan favorites such as the beer stein holding contest, polka dancing, kids’ activities, and the ever-popular Dogtoberfest dog race. Live entertainment will be provided throughout the day, highlighted by performances from The Royal Klobasneks and other local dance groups.
Following early Main Street events spearheaded by local merchant-sisters Julie Beck and Carrie Jackson, the downtown festivities took on new life when the City of Kilgore accepted the reins and expanded the footprint of the annual celebration.
“Kilgore Oktoberfest started as a dream of our former City Manager, Josh Selleck, who was inspired after experiencing the authentic Oktoberfest in Germany,” said Megan Payne, Kilgore Tourism and Marketing Manager. “We are grateful to our current City Manager, Rachel Rowe, and the City Council for continuing to support this event, which has become a beloved event that brings our community together.”
Kilgore Oktoberfest is hosted by the City of Kilgore’s Main Street in partnership with REEL East Texas Film Festival, for whom beer sales serve as a fundraiser to support their programs. Beer garden tickets can be purchased in advance at https://givebutter.com/7DizgW. Additional support comes from local sponsor Gabriel Jordan Buick GMC and the city staff/volunteers who have helped make the event a downtown tradition for a decade.
For more information on Kilgore Oktoberfest, visit www.visitkilgore.com/kilgore-oktoberfest or contact Megan Payne at (903) 218-6898.
