Oktoberfest is an annual event hosted by the District 58 Foundation. Starting as a pumpkin festival, Oktoberfest has evolved into a community-wide celebration with an estimated attendance of 35,000 people and revenue of $55,000.
Oktoberfest raises money for the District 58 Foundation, which funds other organizations such as Grove Express, Reading Games, and the Authors Fest. Oktoberfest revenue is also given to the police station for programs that teach parents and kids how to protect themselves online and in person.
“We have a newer website that has the ability to get feedback about our fundraisers. We appreciate reading the community input,” Janet Alikpala said. Alikapala, who is president of the District 58 Foundation, is the main person in charge of Oktoberfest.
The biggest hit of Oktoberfest is the live music that plays. This year, the event headlined the band Maggie Speaks. The band was joined by 1985 Chicago Bears member and Hall of Famer Dan Hampton.
“There is a young man named Dave Calzaretta and he is the guy who operates the great band Maggie Speaks, the best band in Chicagoland,” Hampton said. “And from time to time he will have me come in and play songs with their band, kind of as a novelty, but also as a fun kick in the pants. Kind of like, ‘Hey, lets have some fun.’”
On the second day of the event the fest holds an annual DGS vs. DGN German Club bratwurst eating contest. This year, DGN won, finishing all their bratwursts in a little over six minutes.
The event caters to people of all ages. Along with the competition, Oktoberfest had a reptile petting zoo and a karaoke event for kids. The event also hosts caterers who sell a variety of unique German beverages and dishes.
Other performances were made by Jason Scheff, Steve Augeri, and Randall Hall. The event closed with a performance by James Bruebach and bands Thrill Pill and Reckless. From smiles on peoples’ faces and full stomachs, it seemed like an overall successful Oktoberfest.
“This is my first year going. I came here with my friend and we are having a great time. We are only here for Saturday, but I wish I went Friday too,” Oktoberfest attendee David Cox said.
