Merritt’s Knights of Columbus are raising their glasses for the third annual Oktoberfest that is set to kick off tomorrow (Friday).
The event will feature the Richmond-based German-style band Silverstars, which performs classic polka music and rock ‘n’ roll.
“We’ve had them for two years now,” said Grand Knight Lea Mack. “They play to the crowd. Whoever is dancing to the music, they play to them.”
The evening will also feature a German dance competition.
“People wear lederhosen and they have a contest of who does it the best and they get free beer,” he explained. “It’s just a bunch of fun.”
Rouladen will also be served, which is bratwurst and sauerkraut, traditional German foods.
A yodeling contest and door prizes are also organized.
The Knights of Columbus has hosted the local Oktoberfest for the last three years, and crowds of about 300 people usually show up.
“We’ve been sold out for the last two years and we are going pretty good right now,” Mack said.
The Knights chose to celebrate on Friday because it was the best time available to rent the Civic Centre to facilitate the party. The German tradition usually begins in September and ends in early October.
The concert is scheduled to start at 6 p.m.
Tickets cost $30 each and can be purchased by calling Mack at 250-315-7770 or 250-378-4572. People can also pick them up at Brambles Bakery and Cafe at 2151 Quilchena Ave.
German Oktoberfest
In Munich, Germany, the Oktoberfest festival lasts 16 days, from late September to the first weekend in October.
The event is the word’s largest fair and it’s among the most renowned events in Germany.
Approximately six million people from throughout the world visit Germany for the event each year.
Beer tents are set up, and only types with at least six per cent alcohol are permitted.
The event began in 1810.
