Downtown St. Thomas will once again be filled with music, dancing, food, and plenty of German tradition this weekend, as the 4th annual Downtown Oktoberfest returns Saturday, September 19th.
The free, family-friendly event runs from 2 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., but this year’s celebration comes with a change of scenery. The event is moving to a new location at the corner of Ross and Talbot Streets, with activities planned throughout the afternoon and evening.
Sarah Lynch, Downtown Development and Engagement Officer with the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation, says the event is about more than just Oktoberfest traditions.
The day will feature plenty of German-inspired entertainment, including performances from the Saxonia Hall Dancers and live music from Weiss Blau, a German folk band that has been part of the event for the past three years.
Families will also have plenty to check out throughout the day. The Kids Zone will be open until 7 p.m., featuring inflatables, crafts with Crock A Doodle, story time, and a community mural supported by Stronger Than the Storm. The Oktoberfest Faceoff and Police vs. Fire Hockey Game are back this year, hosted by the City of St. Thomas
There will also be free train rides running hourly from 2 until 6 p.m. through Port Stanley Terminal Rail. Tickets are required and can be picked up starting at noon from the Railway City Tourism tent near the CASO station.
The entertainment continues into the evening, with local artist Connor Wilson taking the stage around 6 p.m., followed by The Jim Cuddy Band at 7:15. The day will wrap up with closing ceremonies and a special drone show at 9:10 p.m.
With the event moving to a new footprint, organizers are also reminding visitors to be mindful of where they park.
Municipal parking lots are available throughout the downtown area, along with parking at Elgin County Railway Museum, which can be accessed from Wellington Street. Organizers are asking people not to use nearby business parking lots, so those spaces remain available for customers.
Lynch says the event is also an opportunity to recognize the downtown businesses that help make events like this possible.
This year, attendees will purchase alcoholic beverages through a token system, with sales ending at 8:30 p.m. and the bars closing at 9 p.m.
For more, including the event schedule, parking information, and details on activities, visit the Downtown Oktoberfest website and social media pages.
Written by: Kennedy Freeman
