The 9th annual Oktoberfest on the grounds of South Jackson Performing Arts Center started a bit soggy, but Mother Nature relented, allowing the yodelers and polka bands to have a fun day.

“It turned out to be a good day for the event,” said SJPAC Executive Director Greg Gressel about the turnout for the annual tribute to the area’s German heritage. “We are already looking forward to the 10th annual Oktoberfest next year. Bigger and better.”

The event began at 10 a.m. and went to late afternoon with a live German Polka Band “Wurstbrats” taking the stage to take the event home.

Earlier in the event, there were several fun contests including the kids’ costume contest. The Tullahoma High School Marching Band made an appearance playing a medley of favorite tunes including Rocky Top for the Big Orange fans. Corn hole tournaments, a brat eating contest, a yodeling contest, and men’s and women’s stein hoisting added to the fun. This year, teams competed in the various contests, with Clayton’s claiming the crown.