On October 7, 2023, the Town of Vienna eagerly welcomed the return of its annual Oktoberfest celebration. This beloved event, organized by the Vienna Business Association (VBA), brought together the community for a day filled with food, live music, family-friendly activities, and, of course, an abundance of brews at the beer and wine garden. The Vienna Moose Lodge #1896 and its dedicated volunteers played a crucial role in ensuring the success of this lively gathering, which not only showcased the town's rich cultural traditions but also highlighted the Moose Lodge's significant contributions to the community.
The volunteers who brought the spirit of Oktoberfest to life included passionate individuals like Keith Rich, Heather Reis-Platter, Bruce Platter, Todd Nelson, Roger Chang, Emily Miller, Kurt Kohls, Chris Oskuie, Angela Sorrell, Bill Foote, Andy Carson, Allie Bell, Jill Ciccone, Bill Page, Kristen & Brett Wilson, John Dearing, Susan Dozier, Mark Lowes, Charlie Romano, Nancy Maiwand, and more. Their dedication and enthusiasm added to the vibrant atmosphere, ensuring that the spirit of Oktoberfest was alive and well in Vienna.
Vienna Oktoberfest graced Church Street for the 14th consecutive year, offering a full day of festivities from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. This event served as a testament to the town's thriving culture and its commitment to celebrating community spirit. With over 200 registered vendors and 53 sponsors, this year's festival was the biggest yet. The overwhelming response from local businesses and sponsors indicated the event's growing significance.
The beer and wine garden, a central attraction at Oktoberfest, featured an impressive lineup of local businesses. In addition to Vienna's long-standing favorites like Caboose Brewing Company and Vienna Vintner, new additions like Hawk & Griffin and Norm's Beer and Wine joined the festivities, further diversifying the selection of food and drink options along Church Street and Mill Street NE.
Oktoberfest is more than just a festival; it's a celebration of unity, culture, and collaboration. Vienna's tradition of Oktoberfest grows stronger with each passing year, and the 2023 edition was a testament to the town's vibrant spirit and its dedication to fostering a sense of togetherness.
The Vienna Moose Lodge #1896 and all the dedicated volunteers played a pivotal role in ensuring that this year's Oktoberfest was a resounding success. Their contributions, alongside the support of the Vienna Business Association and the broader community, made the event an unforgettable experience for all. As we look ahead to future Oktoberfests in Vienna, it's evident that this annual celebration will continue to be a testament to the unity, culture, and heart of the town. Prost!