George Althoff Executive Director | Baraboo Chamber of Commerce
George Althoff Executive Director | Baraboo Chamber of Commerce
A couple with a strong connection to Bavarian traditions will lead the Baraboo Oktoberfest on September 20 at Circus World. Pete and Rebecca Oettinger, who have attended several Oktoberfests in Germany, will serve as this year's Fest Masters.
“You’re always going to meet new people as you sit down with strangers,” Pete Oettinger remarked. “It’s a great way to meet your neighbors.”
The festivities will begin with the Oettingers taking a rickshaw ride around downtown Baraboo at 3 p.m., followed by the tapping of the golden keg at Circus World. The couple will also judge the costume contest and oversee the stein-holding competition. Organized by the Baraboo Area Chamber of Commerce and presented by Fairfield Inn & Suites, this is the fourth annual event that attracts hundreds of participants each September.
“Oktoberfest is about the community coming together,” said Rebecca Oettinger. “It’s really a chance for everyone in the Baraboo Area to celebrate the fall.”
Rebecca is an attorney-turned-writer, while her husband is a partner with Wegner CPAs, which has deep roots in supporting local businesses and events. They are also partners in Pals Brewing in Wisconsin Dells, which is crafting a special beer for the occasion. Other breweries such as Tumbled Rock Brewery and Al. Ringling Brewing will offer their unique flavors alongside food trucks providing various dishes. Wine offerings from Baraboo Bluff and Balanced Rock wineries will be available.
“We’re excited to have a couple of Oktoberfest aficionados leading our event,” stated George Althoff, Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce. “We encourage everyone to break out their lederhosen and dirndls.”
The tapping of the golden keg by the Oettingers at 3:30 p.m. signals for music from Barabroo WisconSing Beer Choir, followed by performances from Griffy Jim and the Polka Dots from 4-6 p.m., and Electro Retro from 7-9 p.m., with games including a costume contest scheduled between 6-7 p.m.
Admission buttons are priced at $10 if purchased in advance at the Chamber’s Visitor Center located at 600 W. Chestnut St., West Baraboo, but will increase to $12 on September 20. More details can be found at oktoberfestbaraboo.com.
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