Despite rain, hundreds gather for St. Charles Oktoberfest

ST. CHARLES, Mo. — Hundreds of festivalgoers braved the rain Friday to kick off the highly anticipated St. Charles Oktoberfest. Attendees were in high spirits for the weekend long celebration.

“This is a fabulous time to celebrate with the community! It’s awesome! Come and drink some beer. Go to the crafts, eat some amazing German food. It’s amazing and it’s a beautiful day especially under this tent” said Pam Cook, attendee.

“German culture, I’m interested in it! I love it and it’s been a great time” said Jay Orr, attendee.

“It’s very fun, its cold. We’re making something out of it. We’re making the best out of it. It’s pretty cold but we’re getting through” said Addie Blair & Addie Tubbs, attendee.

While the energy was high regardless of the rain, vendors lined the park with everything from authentic German cuisine to handcrafted goods, and performers are hitting the stage despite the weather.

“80 food vendors and that includes all the different food vendors. We have crafts, we have a children’s area. We also have a game area for the adults where we can do barrel racing and stein racing, So we have a little bit for everybody” said Justin Faust, St. Charles Oktoberfest Board Member.

Fries Over Guys, a food vendor stated it has been a lot of foot traffic despite the rain.

“It’s been good. Everybody’s been welcoming and I think it’s going to continue” said Hope Norman, Fries Over Guys food vendor.

For those looking for a premium experience, there’s also a VIP section offering a ceramic stein, all-you-can-eat buffet, a photo wall, and three free beers. The celebration continues Saturday from 10 am to 11pm and wraps up on Sunday at 5pm.

While Oktoberfest marches on, some events, like the Rockwood High School parade and Billy Joel’s concert at Busch stadium were postponed due to weather.

As the rain pours, so do the pints! With a packed schedule of performances, food, and culture events. St. Charles Oktoberfest’s committee promises to be an unforgettable weekend.

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