KYLE MURPHYStaff Writer

It’s that time of year again to pull out the ole lederhosen as the grounds of South Jackson Performing Arts Center at 404 S. Jackson St. will have the sights and sounds of Germany on Saturday, Oct. 14 with the sixth annual Oktoberfest.

The free event, sponsored by Cherokee Distributing and George Dickel, will go from noon to until 8 p.m. at South Jackson’s grounds and Patio Stage where attendees will find a variety of things to do while enjoying various German-inspired food and beer from several food trucks and craft vendors during the free event. Kicking off the event will be a history tasting by George Dickel at 12:30 p.m., and Dickel cocktails at 2 p.m. During the event, attendees can go into the auditorium to watch the Tennessee Volunteers game with their food and beverage.

There will also be various contests throughout the day, including a kids donut eating contest, dog costume contest, brat eating contest, costume contests for adults, youth and kids, a yodeling contest and stein hoisting for youth, men and women. There will also be a kids zone, which will have special games, face painting, prizes, contests and crafts, from 2 to 6 p.m. a live auction at 4 p.m. and the Happiness Band will be performing polka music from 2 to 8 p.m.

South Jackson PAC Chairman Greg Gressel said the organization has recognized the German influence in the area and encourage everyone to attend the event.

“We are excited to celebrate that culture and have this great event for the community on the grounds of South Jackson Performing Arts,” Gressel said.

Vendor space is still available. Those who want to be craft or food vendor are asked to visit southjackson.org/schedule-of-events to download the vendor application. 

The schedule for Oktoberfest can be viewed here: