40th Anniversary of Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg cancels out of precaution

FREDERICKSBURG, TEXAS – One of Fredericksburg’s favorite events, celebrating our German culture, made the announcement it is canceling the 2020 Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg.

Debbie Reeh, Oktoberfest Event Producer, made a difficult decision to cancel Oktoberfest for the first time in its 40-year history. During a meeting with the Oktoberfest Advisory committee, she addressed many reasons why it should be canceled, of which the Advisory Board concurred. Due to the increasing concerns with the spread of COVID-19 they could see it not being feasible to proceed with plans for the event.

“We certainly do not want to risk the safety and well-being of our Oktoberfest Chairs, Pedernales Creative Arts Alliance Board and Members, attendees, volunteers, and all involved with the production Oktoberfest. With COVID-19 spiking now, we felt it’s the right time to decide whether or not we cancel,” said Debbie Reeh.

Oktoberfest, the family-oriented German event style festival was poised again to potentially attract 1,400 volunteers, 22,000 visitors and many other folks who help make it happen. “We were very excited to be turning 40,” stated Debbie Reeh. “ We invite all of you to return in 2021 to help celebrate this grand event. We’ve come a long way! For example, in 1981 it was a one-day festival with one stage featuring four bands; today Oktoberfest has 5 stages showcasing twenty-five bands over three days.”

Oktoberfest annually attracts many visitors just for the shopping opportunities. Over forty juried artisans from across the state fill two big tents, and a select group of local artists showcase their fine art.

Of course, one of the best parts of any celebration in Fredericksburg is the hearty menu of delicious German and American foods. Adventurous tasters can sample over 50 varieties of German, American, Texan, and other imported beers.

Oktoberfest is a time for the youngsters as well. Kids can play to their heart’s content on obstacle courses, a slide, try their hand at the hi-strikers, or enjoy other fun games and activities.

The Pedernales Creative Arts Alliance (PCAA) sponsors Oktoberfest. Its proceeds are used to fund youth arts and music scholarships, as well as community arts and music programs. Oktoberfest started in Fredericksburg with the specific intent to support the arts and music, and it is the only fundraiser PCAA has each year. Its success has enabled many young people from Gillespie County to go to college and study music or the arts. Oktoberfest proceeds also fund many local arts organizations and the MarktPlatz PCAA Concert series.

Save the date – Oktoberfest October 1-3, 2021.

For more information contact 830-997-4810 or email creativemarketing1975@gmail.com.