Despite Hurricane Milton bringing heavy rain, winds, and some destruction to Southwest Florida, Cape Coral’s annual ode to German culture is still going on as planned, as two weekends of celebration starts this Friday.

The German American Club of Cape Coral’s 39th Annual Oktoberfest will welcome thousands to the Bavarian Garden grounds this weekend, bringing their version of the staple event in Munich to life here locally.

“Hurricane Milton caused some delays in the preparations,” said GASC spokesperson Susie Zimmer. “As with many in our area, the German American Social Club had no power for a few days, and whether or not it would be back in time was questionable. Tent setup was also delayed, but it’s up now. Recent repairs to the clubhouse roof, buildings, and Bavarian Gardens proved successful as Milton swept through our area. Additional volunteers were recruited from the community this last weekend and cleanup was swift with many hands. The Club is grateful for all of the help.”

The GACS’s Oktoberfest runs from Oct. 18-21, and 25-27, where the community, regardless of cultural background, can gather for some Gaudi (leg-slapping, joyous fun) and Gemütlichkeit (that warm feeling of belonging and being a part of something special).

“Whether you’re sitting with family, dancing under the big tent, or relaxing under bright umbrellas in the Bavarian Gardens, there is a place for everyone,” Zimmer said.

The festival kicks off on Fridays at 4 p.m. and goes to midnight, and opens again on Saturdays from noon until midnight and on Sundays from noon until 8 p.m.

The event is filled with fun, delicious food, German beer and spirits, live music, and dancing–everything from Polka to Fliegerlied, and of course, the Bobb and Chicken Dance.

“Simply put, Oktoberfest represents German heritage at its finest, also known as German Gemütlichkeit,” Zimmer said. “It is a time the German American Social Club looks forward to every year when it can invite the community to come on out and celebrate with their clan or crew, significant other, or to just come alone — everyone is bound to meet some fantastic people.”

With music-makers flown in from Germany, alongside performances by local favorites and entertainment for all ages, there is plenty of fun to enjoy.

“So, dust off your dirndls, launder your lederhosen, and join us for an epic time of stein slurping with your beste Freunde, even those you’ve just met,” Zimmer added.

After its success in 2023, the GACS’s VIP program is back, featuring exclusive seating, drink specials from sponsor Jägermeister, a sit-down meal in the Von Steuben Hall, a beer stein with refills, and much more.

Featuring outdoor exhibitors, food vendors that offer both German food and international, or a sit-down dinner in the Von Steuben Hall, Oktoberfest has so much to offer. Attendees can also stop for a photo shoot with Ms. Oktoberfest 2024, Alexandra Reifschneider.

“The dedicated GASC members, each one of them volunteering their time and effort to create the region’s most successful event, welcome you to enjoy German heritage,” Zimmer said. “Once you capture the magic, you’ll want to become a member as well.”

Advance tickets are $8, and $10 at the gate. Children 12 and under are admitted free. All event dates are rain or shine. VIP tickets can be purchased online.

For more information, visit https://capecoraloktoberfest.com.

The GASC is at 2101 Southwest Pine Island Road.