The Bratwurst Festival board and dozens of volunteers are gearing up for the annual Bratwurst Festival in downtown Bucyrus that kicks off Thursday and runs through 11 p.m. Saturday.
This year's theme is Brattie Supports our First Responders!
According to Kate Volk, the public relations and community engagement director, the festival is back with more excitement and community spirit than ever before.
“ This year’s festival promises to deliver all the beloved traditions along with some thrilling new surprises. From the craft show, art show, and 5K Color Run/Walk to the highly anticipated second year of the Beer Garden, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy,” Volk said.
Townie Night aims to put a local voice into the festival
She said an open mic event, referred to as Townie Night will be held Thursday at the FC Stage.
“This special evening is designed to bring the local community together in a fun, laid-back setting. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or new to town, Townie Night is your chance to showcase your talent, connect with friends and enjoy the festival in a way that’s uniquely Bucyrus,” Volk said.
People can sign up by emailing info.bratwurstfestival@gmail.com to secure a spot on the stage.
Becky Lutz, Beer Garden manager, is excited about the return of the Beer Garden for its second year.
"We’re thrilled to bring back the Beer Garden, which has quickly become a highlight of the festival,” Lutz said. “This year’s Beer Garden theme, Bratwurst & Beer Never Broke My Heart, really captures the joy and camaraderie that define our festival. It’s a place where people can come together, enjoy great beer, and embrace the fun and festive spirit of Bucyrus."
Check out what going on at Carle's Family Fun Zone; a surprise in store
Volk said Carle's Family Fun Zone is the place to be for families who like to have a good time.
“It’s an area where kids can enjoy a fantastic array of activities completely free of charge. Starting at noon and running until the parade begins on both Friday and Saturday, the Fun Zone will be packed with exciting attractions,” Volk said. “Kids can dive into the candy scramble, test their skills on the putt-putt golf course, unleash their creativity at the coloring station, challenge friends to a bean bag toss, play giant Connect 4, and cool off with water balloons. Plus, there will be plenty of candy and other prizes to go around.”
She said there will be special guests making appearances in the Fun Zone.
“On both Friday and Saturday from 2-5 p.m., the Bucyrus Little Theater will bring beloved characters to life, including Mary Poppins, Jasmine, Ariel, Cat in the Hat, and Charlie Brown, for meet and greets, dancing, and photo opportunities,” Volk said. “On Saturday, a professional balloon twister will also be on hand from 2-5 p.m., creating amazing balloon sculptures that will delight kids of all ages. It’s a weekend of unforgettable fun and excitement for the whole family.”
Volk said the festival board is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help make the Fun Zone a success.
“This is a great opportunity for high school students to earn their volunteer hours. Interested volunteers can sign up through the link on our homepage,” said Volk.
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'Heart and effort' goes creating the Bratwurst Festival
She said it has been a very rewarding experience to come back and volunteer with the festival, especially alongside Adam Heinlen, festival board president, and the incredible team of volunteers.
“You really see how much heart and effort goes into making this event a success. What I love most about the Bratwurst Festival is the sense of community it fosters. Seeing everyone come together − families, friends, neighbors − it’s just a reminder of how close-knit and supportive Bucyrus really is. Being part of something that brings so much joy and pride to our town is incredibly fulfilling,” said Volk.
Heinlen has a deep connection with the festival he now helps to facilitate.
“Growing up, the Bratwurst Festival has always been a part of my life. It's more than just an event; it's a tradition that brings our community together year after year,” Heinlen said. “To see it continue to grow and thrive, and to now play a role in its success, is incredibly meaningful to me. This festival is woven into the fabric of Bucyrus, and I’m proud to be part of something that means so much to so many."
Larry West, who has returned to help make the festival a success, shares his enthusiasm.
“Once a Brattie, always a Brattie. We do what needs to be done so Bucyrus can have a little fun,” West said.
For more information about this year’s Bratwurst Festival, visit bucyrusbratwurstfestival.com .
This article originally appeared on Bucyrus Telegraph-Forum: Food, fun and even some surprises on tap for this year's Bratwurst Festival
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