By Justin Creech
Staff writer
Thursday, September 27, 2012
The Fort Belvoir Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation presents the 17th annual Oktoberfest celebration to the Belvoir and surrounding community Oct. 4-7 at Freemont Field.
The Thursday through Sunday event, which highlights authentic German food, beverages, music and dancing, starts on Oct. 4 with a performance by the Freistadt Alte Karmeraden band from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. It continues Oct. 5 from 6 p.m. to midnight with the highlight of the night being the ceremonial keg tapping.
The event runs from noon to midnight Oct. 6 and concludes Oct. 7, Military Appreciation Day, with a performance by the Army Downrange Band
The celebration is a Belvoir community event and a chance to interact with the surrounding local community members.
“Oktoberfest allows the community to experience a safe and fun event that offers great food with numerous vendors, live music acts that will be (performing) throughout the entire event and thrilling rides for all ages,” said Ryan Moran, DFMWR Community Recreation Division, acting chief. “It’s a true community event that is open to all and brings everyone together.”
The keg tapping is an invitation only event, but spectators are welcome to watch from outside the tent.
“It won’t prevent them from purchasing refreshments,” said Romel Voellm, DFWMR Special Events Coordinator. “Garrison Commander Col. Gregory D. Gadson and Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Chester D. Grelock will be present.”
Vendors will serve German-American Fare offering bratwurst, barbecue pork and German potato salad, and Arabella Bistro, offering traditional Mediterranean and Casual American Cuisine. The Lazy Pig barbecue, Carol’s Concessions and Goodie’s Frozen Custard will serve American-style cuisine.
Oktoberfest is the biggest on-post event of the year for DFMWR, so planning begins a year ahead of time.
“I would have to say it means doing everything we can to offer such a quality recreational opportunity to all in our military community,” said Moran. “An opportunity they very much deserve.”
Entry to Freemont Field is free, but a daily wristband must be purchased, one per person, for all carnival rides. The cost for wrist bands is $15 on Thursday, $25 Friday, $30 Saturday and $25 on Sunday.
ATM machines will be available on-site, but people are encouraged to bring cash to pay for all food and drink.
A complimentary shuttle is available for post residents to take to Freemont Field. The shuttle will run Oct. 5 through 7 and will pick up from nine different locations.
Prohibited items include backpacks, large bags, ice chests, coolers, bikes, pets, camera bags larger than 1 cubic foot, beverages and food.
All bags are subject to search and a 100 percent ID check will take place.
For additional information about Oktoberfest, go to www.belvoirMWR.com/Oktoberfest, or call Ryan Moran at (703) 805-1134.
