Oktoberfest returns to The Cape
The largest Oktoberfest in Southwest Florida opened over the weekend, drawing thousands to the German-America Social Club in Cape Coral.
Attendees were treated to live music, authentic home-made German specialties including schnitzel, potato pancakes and bratwurst, imported German beer, domestic beer, wine and spirits.
The two-weekend event kicked off Friday afternoon and, by early evening, the grounds were alive with festive guests and food and drink vendors.
“We have been coming to this event for years. It is the very best Oktoberfest in Florida, and that’s saying a lot. We have even been to Oktoberfest in Germany, and still look forward to this one,” Nancy Wilk said.
She and her husband carried personalized Pilstulpes, which were filled – upon the couples’ arrival – with traditional German pilsner.
Draft beer stands were poised throughout the grounds, and two large covered venues housed live music. The German band Die Aichers traveled to Cape Coral from Lake of Constance, Germany specifically for the local event.
Tom and Elizabeth Grosskopf said they started attending the Cape Coral Oktoberfest in 2018.
“We’re still trying to figure out which of the three nights is the best night to come,” Elizabeth said, adding, “Tonight is the first night and it seems really good.”
Families of all ages strolled by craft and vendor booths, while older members of the community gathered within site of Die Aichers. A few couples danced as tunes from the authentic accordion bounced from table to ceiling. Venue-wide, the spirit was merry.
Cape Coral resident Trish Lassiter said she enjoys coming to Oktoberfest for the beer and potato pancakes. “The potato pancakes here are the absolute best,” she said.
Oktoberfest will return for its second weekend, next Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 23-25.
General admission tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the gate, with free admission for children ages 12 and under. On-site parking is free.
GACS’s VIP program is back, featuring exclusive seating, drink specials, a sit-down meal in the Von Steuben Hall, a beer stein with refills, and much more.
The GASC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting German culture, heritage, and community fellowship in Southwest Florida through social events, volunteer efforts, and cultural traditions.
For more information, visit gasc-capecoral.com.
The German-American Social Club of Cape Coral is at 2101 SW Pine Island Road, Cape Coral.