Oktoberfest Durango set for Sept. 27-28 in Downtown Durango – Business Improvement District takes on event organization
Durango, CO- The Durango Business Improvement District (BID) has taken on oversight and organization of the 11th Annual Oktoberfest Durango, scheduled for Sept. 27-28, 2014, in the Transit Center parking lot in Downtown Durango. The revamped event is designed as “family-friendly,” featuring entertainment and activities for all ages.
Durango’s Oktoberfest is loosely modeled after the original festivities held in 1810 in Munich, Germany, honoring the marriage of King Ludwig I to Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen with a 16-day celebration that spanned September-October. Beer and a generous array of food were, and continue to be, a central part of the Munich celebration, which at one time also incorporated a horse race, plus an agricultural show.
“We’re not going to attempt a horse race, but we’ll have plenty of non-stop activities over the two days,” said Tim Walsworth, BID executive director who is heading up the event coordination. “Also, instead of an agricultural show, we’ll be featuring an arts market.”
Oktoberfest Durango is set for noon to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, and noon to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, and will feature two performance stages with non-stop music including both German-style polka bands and contemporary dance bands (line-up to be announced). German-style food booths and games for the young and seasoned including a brat-eating contest, human-sized checkers, stein relay races, dunk tank, kissing booth and more are in the planning stages. Walsworth is seeking sponsors ($250-$2500) to help ensure that the wish list of family-friendly activities is top-of-the-line.
First National Bank of Durango has stepped up as the Title Sponsor and The Wells Group has also agreed to sponsor the event.
“Traditional Oktoberfest events always include games or carnival area,” added Walsworth. “And there will of course be beer. I anticipate a total of 10 local and regional breweries to participate.”
The Durango Transit Center is located at 250 W. 8th St. in Historic Downtown Durango. Those attending will have an option to park at the La Plata County Fairgrounds and catch the Main Ave. Trolley for easy access to the event.
Proceeds from Oktoberfest will benefit the activities of the BID, which includes enhancing the economic vitality of the District (Downtown and North Main) through a variety of marketing, advocacy and business development tools.
Keep current with Oktoberfest Durango updates on Facebook, www.facebook.com/OktoberfestDurango, on Twitter @OktoberfestDGO, on Instagram at oktoberfestdurango and on the website www.OktoberfestDurango.com.
For further information on Oktoberfest Durango 2014, or to learn more about volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, contact Walsworth at 970.375.5068 or [email protected].
