The Octoberfest in March celebration kicked off on Friday at the Shell Factory & Nature Park in North Fort Myers, and will run through Sunday, March 14.
Despite area power outages and flooding from heavy rains, loyal Octoberfest and polka fans turned out for the event kick-off, and officials said the show will go on.
Event hours over the weekend are Saturday, March 13, from noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday, March 14, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. A Polka Mass will be held Sunday at 11 a.m.
It is the seventh annual event to benefit Cape Coral’s Christ Lutheran Church’s charitable work. There will be food and craft vendors and of course, great polka music.
Some of the biggest names in polka will be in attendance.
Three-time grammy award winner Walter Ostanek, known as “Canada’s Polka King.” Bob Kravos is returning this year. He is the greatnephew of famed polka master Frank Yankovic, and will perform with Jeff Winard and others groups, including the Florida Tropical Squeeze Six-piece Slovenian Band.
Last year nearly 8,000 guests attended the event, which moved to the
Shell Factory two years ago from the Cape Coral church to accommodate even bigger crowds.
The Shell Factory is at 2787 Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers.
The cost for admission is $5 for Saturday and Sunday. Parking is free.
Discount coupons are available at several sponsor locations, including the Shell Factory, the law firm of Viles & Beckman or any of the six Cape Coral Eye Center locations.
For information, call organizer Don Ostrowsky at 940-3212.