Inaugural Oktoberfest brings craft beer to Marion

Beer friends photo created by jcomp - www.freepik.com

The Marion Chamber announces a new event coming to the metro area. Oktoberfest will be held from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 17. 

Oktoberfest will feature 25 breweries from Iowa and surrounding areas sampling a wide variety of styles. Each brewery will have representatives on hand to visit with and educate participants on their beers. Attendees will also enjoy live music and traditional German games.

The event will take place in Uptown Marion on Seventh Avenue and City Square Park. Each attendee will receive a commemorative tasting glass, access to samples, and complimentary water.

“We are excited for this inaugural event bringing craft beer enthusiasts together,” Jill Ackerman, Marion Chamber president, stated in a news release. “Marion’s new Uptown festival-street area and restaurant scene make it a great environment for the festival.” 

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Winter Lights program which helps fund Marion’s community beautification during the holiday season. Oktoberfest will also benefit the Iowa Brewer’s Guild which works to showcase and improve the quality of beer brewed in Iowa and supports the promotion of the local brewing community.

Traditional German games will be held at City Square Park in Celebration Tent. Attendees can try their hand at the stein holding contest and hammerschlagen. Awards will be presented at the end of the day.

General admission tickets are $40 and include access to breweries beginning at noon, a commemorative tasting glass, complimentary water and participation in games at Celebration Tent.

An exclusive VIP ticket is available for $50. It will include 11 a.m. access to brewers including limited run offerings and swag items, a Premium Oktoberfest tasting glass, complimentary water and participation in games at Celebration Tent.

Tickets are now on sale at EventBrite.com. Must be 21 years of age to participate, tickets and IDs will be scanned at the entrance to the event.

For more information visit marioncc.org or call (319) 377-6316.