Festival will include both traditional German group and up-tempo rock band

By Josh Davis, Associate Editor (Oct. 12, 2017)

The annual Berlin Oktoberfest returns to the downtown area this Saturday with its traditional German music, food and drinks. Berlin Economic and Community Development Director Ivy Wells said the festival would follow the same formula as last year’s highly successful event. The Alte Kumpel Band, which performed last year, will take the stage from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. and will play authentic Bavarian, German, Austrian, Alpine and American beer-drinking songs, polkas, marches and waltzes. Philadelphia-based jungle funk/alternative rock band Pet Cheetah will also perform. Food vendors will include bratwurst from Gilbert’s Provisions and the Atlantic Hotel, pretzels from Baked Dessert Café, crabby pretzels from Crush N Crab and additional food from On What Grounds and Rosenfeld’s Jewish Delicatessen. Fins Ale House and Raw Bar on 119 North Main Street will also offer “Oystoberfest,” an outdoor raw bar. The Berlin Chamber of Commerce will operate two beer stations, featuring Burley Oak Brewing Company. Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services will offer free children’s activities, including pumpkin painting and making pinecone birdfeeders. Additional children’s activities and entertainment will be provided by juggler Cascading Carlos, pet store Scales and Tails, and the Fishmobile from the Phillips Wharf Environmental Center. Parking will be available at Stephen Decatur Park, on 131 Tripoli Street. Shore Transit will provide a free shuttle service, running from 309 Franklin Avenue to the downtown area. The Fall Sidewalk Sale coincides with Oktoberfest, with many shops selling discounted items on tables and racks from the Main Street sidewalk. “I want everyone to leave with smile on their face,” Wells said. “Oktoberfest has something for all ages, so it’s just a really good time with friends and family.” Berlin Oktoberfest runs from noon until 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.berlinmainstreet.com/ events/berlin-oktoberfest-fall-sidewalk-sale or search “Berlin Oktoberfest & Fall Sidewalk Sale” on Facebook.