After a five-year hiatus, the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce (GGCC) has announced the return of the Germantown Oktoberfest on October 5, a free, family-friendly event that will celebrate the community’s diversity with live music, a parade, food trucks, kids’ activities, and local business showcases.
Per the GGCC: “Germantown, MD, the third most populous community in Maryland, and one of the most diverse in the country, is all set to share the spirit of Oktoberfest in a grand celebration that promises something for everyone! This year, the Germantown Oktoberfest will not only reflect the traditional elements of Oktoberfest, but will be an ode to the diverse community it serves in a free celebration perfect for the whole family! Montgomery County Councilmember Marilyn Balcombe says, “The Germantown Oktoberfest was our signature event for many, many years. I am thrilled it is coming back to Germantown.” The event is centered in Germantown Town Center along Century Blvd. Event partner BlackRock Center for the Arts will host the hub of activities on its grand lawn and surrounding streets.
The main elements of the event, organized by the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce (GGCC) in partnership with, and with funding support for the business district granted by the County Executive and County Council, include: a community parade, The MoCo Show Biergarten, the iHeart Radio Oktoberfest Stage with live music and DJ entertainment, a DC 101 pop-up with games featuring the Commanders’ Major Tuddy and Commanders’Cheerleaders, the Lil’ Pumpkins Activities for children – a pumpkin patch and Spooky Dance Party – with BlackRock Center for the Arts, the BSO Music Box Series Performances inside BlackRock, a children’s carnival by Great Kids Events and activities sponsored by TopGolf, the GGCC Business Expo, the Painting Pop Up with We Art Fun sponsored by the Fairchild Apartments, food trucks, food and drink specials from local restaurants and after party deals to keep the fun alive after the event ends at 5 pm. GGCC
President & CEO, Paula Ross says, “I am overjoyed to support the return of this beloved event to the community. This is a fantastic opportunity to open the next chapter for Germantown – honoring its rich history, its vibrant community and its vision for the future. We are grateful to the County for partnering with us on the return of this signature event to Germantown, as part of our Chamber’s project in Germantown Town Center business district.”
The Parade Kickoff begins at 11 am along Century Blvd from Crystal Rock Drive to Town Commons Drive, led by the Seneca Valley High School marching band and includes local dance troops, girl scouts, princesses, and the Commanders’ Major Tuddy.
Event partner BlackRock Center for the Arts will host the iHeart Radio Oktoberfest Stage with a wonderful array of live musical, both in keeping with the tradition of Oktoberfest with oompah bands and accompanying traditional dancers, blues, and the ultimate Disney Tribute band, the Little Mermen, which Buzzfeed called “freaking adorable” and Time Out Magazine called “an enchanting evening!” The fusion of these musical performances promises an unforgettable experience that will have everyone’s feet tapping and hearts soaring. Along with amazing music, the Black Rock Center for the Arts will have fun fall activities for little ones including an indoor Spooky Dance Party kicking off at 1:30 pm and two pop-up costume parades for children to participate in!
The BlackRock Artisans Market will showcase a stunning display of local craftsmanship and creativity. Meanwhile, the GGCC Business Expo will provide a platform for local entrepreneurs and businesses to shine, offering a diverse array of products and services. Nearby, attendees can enjoy a brew at the Biergarten, sponsored by The MoCo Show, featuring Lone Oak Farm Brewing Company, Waredaca Brewing Company, and Doc Waters Cidery.
Guests should make sure to arrive hungry; surrounding restaurants along the event will offer food and drink specials, complemented by local food trucks offering food from a diverse array of cuisines.
Families are in for a treat at the Great Kids Events children’s carnival, sponsored by Top Golf, which includes activities from Top Golf, moonbounces, and games. There will also be character meet-n-greets and face painting with Princess Parties of DC, and a pop in and paint activity with We Art Fun, sponsored by the the Fairchild Apartments.
The Germantown Oktoberfest is a free event, open to all, and presents a unique opportunity to celebrate and give back to the community. Attendees are encouraged to contribute school supplies and coats for local Title I schools, ensuring that the warmth of the festival extends beyond its grounds and into the lives of the less fortunate. Those that donate will be entered for a chance to win prizes from local shops in and around Germantown! Visit the GGCC tent near the library to drop off your items! While there youcan learn more about the roots of Oktoberfest from the Maryland German Society, onsite with goodies and information from the German Embassy in DC. The fun continues until 5 pm but doesn’t stop there, with after-party excitement at Top Golf and Señor Tequilas continuing through the night!
Come Celebrate!
Mark your calendars for this unforgettable celebration of community, culture, and compassion at the Germantown Oktoberfest.
Attendance is free for all! Guests are encouraged to RSVP for a chance to win one of three prize packs valued at over $200 here: Germantown Oktoberfest Tickets, Sat, Oct5, 2024 at 11:00 AM | Eventbrite
To apply to walk in the parade (free of charge) click here: Germantown Town Center: Germantown Oktoberfest 2024 (signupgenius.com)
To sponsor the event, learn more here: Gaithersburg, MD Chamber Events (ggchamber.org) or email [email protected]
To exhibit in the business expo, click here: Gaithersburg, MD Chamber Events (ggchamber.org)”
