New Festival Coming to Portland Celebrating the Area's German Traditions

An Oktoberfest returns to the City of Two Rivers this time with more of a traditional Oktoberfest feel. Oktoberfest von Portland will provide multiple German style beers both imported and from the States. The event will take place at the Grand River Conservation Club just outside of the city limits, at 4 – 10 p.m. Saturday Oct. 5.

Portland once celebrated Oktoberfest but it has been sometime since the event last took place and this one will be significantly different says festival organizer Eric Proctor.

“There will be a lot more going on with this Oktoberfest,” said Proctor “It’s going to be fun having a more Bavarian style Oktoberfest with traditional German imported beer, German food, and some fun entertainment like the wiener dog race.”

There will be beer, mead, and cider that will come from both Germany and Breweries across the United States including Erdinger Weissbräu, Brauhaus Riegele, Staatliches Hofbräuhaus München, Cölner Hofbräu Früh, Radeberger Gruppe, Köstritzer Schwarzbier, Great Lakes Brewing Company, MiddleCoast Brewing Company, Greenbush Brewing Company, Cranker’s Brewery, Odd Side Ales, Bee Well Meadery, and Starcut Ciders.

Also featured will be Fluxtoberfest from Portland’s very own Confluxcity Brewing Company. Brewery owner Jim Hilligan is thrilled to be part of another Portland event.

“When we heard there was going to be an Oktoberfest in our hometown, we became immediately excited. We are thrilled to be part of this event,” Hilligan said. “It’s great for the community, what a wonderful way to celebrate craft beer and the season!”

Hilligan also happily shared a preview to his yet to be released Fluxtoberfest.

“A malt forward beer with an amber color. Floral English hops bring out very traditional flavors,” said Hilligan. “Fluxtoberfest is lagered for a month to assure it keeps its medium body and a slightly dry finish, cheers!”

Food will be provided by Sweet Caroline’s BBQ and Catering yet it will not be BBQ. Caterer Chris Teachout will be providing German delicacies schnitzel, roasted chicken halves, sweet corn on the cob, brats, hotdogs, sauerkraut, and steckerlfisch.

Musical performances from Rush Clement and Skip and The Dude will provide the sounds to move to.

Food, beer, and music are must haves though there will be a couple added activities to participate in, a dachshund race and keg toss.

Tickets are just $5 for entry and pay per beer and food.

Proceeds from Oktoberfest von Portland will benefit the Grand River Conservation Club

To purchase tickets, visit oktoberfestvonportland.com.