Wiener dog racing, polka dancing will highlight this German celebration
GALENA, Ill. - Prepare to have one of the best days of your life, by attending the 4th Annual Galena Oktoberfest, Saturday, October 2, in Galena, Illinois! The day begins with a cannon blast and the ceremonial tapping of the keg. Activities will take place throughout the day, including wiener dog races and events, a bean bag tournament, polka dancing and lessons, beer stein endurance contest, raffle drawings for cash and prizes, plus a bounce house and games for the kids.
Galena Oktoberfest will take place at the Eastside Riverfront in Galena from noon to 11 p.m. There will be live music continuously throughout the entire day. This year polka music aficionados will be entertained by the Jim Busta Band from Spring Grove, Minnesota and The Goodtime Dutchman from Kewaskum, Wisconsin, both of which are very talented polka bands, well-known locally and nationally. A favorite local band, Sunshine, will play out the night with popular music. Galena's own Jennifer Mulcahey, of Ballroom by Jennifer, will provide free polka dancing lessons, having taught a variety of dance styles for 20 years. Food will be offered by Galena favorites Benjamin's Restaurant, the Elks Club, and Extra Batch Bakery. A wide variety of German beers and soda will be available for purchase too.
Gate tickets to Galena Oktoberfest are $5 for adults and teens, children 12 and under are admitted free. Proceeds from Galena Oktoberfest will go to the Galena Lions Club, which serves the community by helping those with sight and hearing needs.
For more information, go to www.galenaoktoberfest.com. The website provides complete, up-to-date information on the schedule of events, registration forms for the races and events, and much more. For those without internet access, call (815) 331-0180 and leave a message to receive more information. Additional area offerings and visitor information may be found at the Galena/Jo Daviess County Convention and Visitors Bureau at www.galena.org or by calling (877) Go-Galena. While in town, visit the CVB's Old Train Depot Visitor Information Center at 101 Bouthillier St. (corner of Park Avenue) for on-site assistance and countywide information.
