FOLEY – OWA is bringing Oktoberfest, a classic German-inspired event, to its Downtown entertainment district. The festival will be held on the evening of Saturday, Oct. 2 from 4 - 9 p.m. and will feature a variety of free entertainment along with delicious food and drink specials.

Drawing from the success of 2020’s Nachtspiele event, meaning “Night Games” in German, OWA has upped the ante with new German-inspired games, free registration for gauntlet competitors and the addition of arts and crafts vendors. Vendor registration is $30 and will remain open through Sept. 28 or until full. Applications can be obtained by emailing Events@VisitOWA.com.

Beer games are back for 2021! Teams of four can compete to win the Oktoberfest Gauntlet with $1,500 in cash prizes to be distributed among the top three ranking teams. This mix of traditional beer games include: Stein Holding, Thumb Wrestling, Pretzel Eating, Beer Sliding, and Yodeling. Extra points will be given to teams that show up in costume. Registration for the beer games is free, and all team members must be 21+ to participate. Pre-register to start practicing and snag your free Oktoberfest t-shirt at VisitOWA.com/Oktoberfest.

Those not looking to compete in the games can enjoy German brews and food specials as well as browse the selection of entertainment throughout Downtown. A polka band brings that extra “oompa” as crowds feast and feel the beat of seasonal fall fun.

“Oktoberfest at OWA is a time to enjoy a laid back, fun evening with friends in a socially-distanced space,” said Kristin Hellmich, OWA’s Director of Marketing/PR. “As the seasons change, our goal is to celebrate these special moments with our guests and to encourage having a good time together in a safe and fun environment.”

OWA’s Downtown entertainment district is open to pedestrians only with plenty of entertainment in a walkable area. For those who enjoy delicious food, fall weather, a little friendly competition and fabulous entertainment, then OWA’s Oktoberfest is the perfect place to kick off the season.