Oktoberfest draws record crowds
It was a perfect Germanic storm so to speak for the first weekend of Oktoberfest in Cape Coral last Friday through Sunday, as favorable weather combined with a thirsty contingent of beer drinkers made for record numbers for the event.
Over 12,000 people – which is a 25 percent increase from 2015 – passed through the Oktoberfest grounds at the German American Social Club at 2101 SW Pine Island Road. All those visitors to the 31st Oktoberfest drained 400 kegs of beer, which is over half of last year’s record number of 769 for both weekends.
“Last weekend went just fantastic,” said Susie Zimmer, event spokesperson. “We were just packed Saturday and there were long lines to get in, so we are recommending purchasing your tickets beforehand to avoid those lines.”
The two ticket booths will be accepting credit cards to help move the lines along faster, as well.
One big factor of why the Oktoberfest is drawing in its largest ever crowds is effective advertising, which has publicized the event well. Gorgeous, cooler weather also played a hand in the crowds and this weekend looks to be more of the favorable temperatures.
“We are expecting more or less of the same as last weekend,” Zimmer said. “We are definitely expecting to reach record highs.”
In attendance all weekend will be Ms. Oktoberfest 2016 Scarlett Conrad, who is originally from Maintal near Frankfurt, Germany. She lives and works in Fort Myers and is an executive assistant with Imperial Fire Alarm and Security, while also studying to be a wedding planner.
“(Conrad) was taking photos with many people last weekend,” Zimmer said. “She will be here again this weekend with her young smile.”
Craft beer is also being served, including some beer from local breweries. Craft beer started being served last year and it was a big hit, which led into 2016.
And no worries, there will be no beer shortages.
“We have beer trucks coming in and out, they make sure we are not running out,” Zimmer said.
Music will be a constant under the big tent, with two stages overlooking the large dance floor, which will feature plenty of polka, Blues and Jazz.
There also is a lot of food in which to partake, with of course, lots of German and Bavarian tasty entrees. Vendors on site also serve everything from Italian to Greek to ice cream. Kiddy rides are also available for the younger crowd.
“We are very appreciative of all the support the community has given us,” Zimmer said. “We are happy everyone can be a part of our best annual celebration. We like sharing the love with the community.”
Oktoberfest will continue today from 4 p.m. to midnight; then from noon to midnight on Saturday and noon to 9 p.m. on Sunday.
Tickets are $6 at the gate or $5 in advance; children ages 12 and under are free. Advance tickets are available at the club, the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral and Trebing Tile and Carpet.
Police, fire, EMS and active duty military get in free any day by showing their ID.
For more information, email info@capecoraloktoberfest.com or visit their website at www.capecoraloktoberfest.com or find them on Facebook.