It’s finally October, which means Octoberfest is returning to Corbin and Williamsburg, bringing along food, live music, and plenty of activities for families. Both events are free to attend.
Williamsburg’s 3rd annual Oktoberfest is this Saturday, Oct. 4, from 4 – 10 p.m. in Williamsburg at the Green Space on Main.
Williamsburg Mayor Roddy Harrison mentioned that this year’s event aims to embrace the traditional aspects of Oktoberfest celebrations.
“We are trying to gear and move in the direction of what Oktoberfest is about, and that is the German cuisine and the German festivities,” Harrison said, referring to the origins of Oktoberfest, and mentioning foods like hot dogs, bratwursts, sauerkrauts, while still offering barbecue for folks who may not like the other food options.
Oktoberfest will also have activities for kids. Families can look forward to face painting and games, including giant Jenga, ring toss, cornhole, Connect Four, and a designated kids’ corner.
As for entertainment, local artist Monica Manning will perform from 4 – 4:45 p.m., Tidalwave Road from 5 – 6:45 p.m., and conclude with a new band from Nashville called Bueller Band, an 80s cover band, performing 7 – 10 p.m.
“I think we have a little bit of variety in our music,” said Harrison. “We’re going to have different styles of music that you can come down and listen to.”
Oktoberfest will also feature a wide range of vendors offering clothing, food and beverages, flowers, and wood carvings.
“We’ve got a little bit of everything for people,” said Harrison.
For Harrison, the heart of Oktoberfest is the community.
“I get excited about people having an opportunity to come downtown, celebrate our town, and bring people together,” said Harrison. “That’s why we always say it ‘feels like home’. We want people to come here and feel at home. I think we have a beautiful downtown.”
Harrison said he looks forward to seeing people come together and smile, shake hands, or hug each other.
“That’s what we need in this day and time. We need each other,” said Harrison. “My final comment would be to come down, stay with us for a while, and enjoy yourself and experience Williamsburg, all of us, together.”
The following weekend, Corbin will host its annual Octoberfest on Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. throughout downtown.
The event will feature a mix of vendors, family activities, and attractions designed to bring the community together.
“Octoberfest is definitely for our visitors, but it’s also for our community members,” said Emily Roberts, Executive Director of Corbin Tourism. “It’s a time of happiness and connection, and just appreciating what we have here in Corbin. We have so many amazing artists and makers. I just love the opportunity to showcase them.”
This year’s lineup of activities includes the Cumberland Valley Cruise-in with antique cars, inflatables and an 18-foot slide from All About Fun Inflatables in Nibroc Park, and a Foggy Bottoms petting zoo, also in Nibroc Park.
Chris McQueen, the organizer of the Cumberland Valley Cruise In, has scheduled Georgia Branan to portray Aunt Bee from The Andy Griffith Show, allowing people to take pictures with her.
The University of the Cumberlands, as well as representatives from Parkway Ministries, will have volunteers available to assist with children’s games.
The event will feature Vendor’s Alley along 1st Street, showcasing arts and crafts, as well as food and drink vendors, including a booth that will serve “dirty sodas”.
The Whitley County Farmers’ Market will also be at the Hometown Bank Farmers’ Market with jams, jellies, baked goods, honey, and fresh produce.
Downtown shops and restaurants will join the celebration, featuring businesses such as White Rabbit Records, the Pinball Museum, and Campbell Ceramics.
“This year, we’re trying to promote our businesses that are already established on Main Street.”
Harvey’s on Main will host pumpkin painting, while WD Bryant’s is sponsoring a fall-themed photo opportunity in Sanders Park.
Gary’s Sound Machine will provide music.
Above all, Corbin’s OctoberFest wants to highlight community.
“Community and shared experiences are so important,” Roberts said. “I just love all these strangers in our community that come together and have fun.”
