I had high hopes for the Chillicothe Oktoberfest. I read the itinerary for the event and thought, if there is one place to bring the event to life, it would be Chillicothe. The flyer had it labeled as a family-friendly event. Still, when I arrived with my daughter and husband, I expected more.
I have nothing against beer. It's not for me, but I'm not one to judge someone on vices. We all have them, but this festival could benefit from more variety. Some served German foods, but I only saw a bratwurst vendor and one that served what is pictured above. I don't know the dish's name, but it was served by Bell Farms and was delightful. It was some pickle, mustard, onion concoction wrapped in meat and served with a potato. I wanted to experience more Bavarian culture but was disappointed.
The fee for the festival was $5, and the money went toward beautifying the Historic District in the spring and summer. I love helping my community, but if I'm paying money to enter the "gate," which was wide open, to a public street anyone can walk on, I better be seeing lederhosen with every step I take.
The festival itself only took up half the street it was on, and half of that was dedicated to very little food and kid-friendly entertainment. The vendor even served German chocolate cake, but they didn't realize it was invented in America. The cake is "German" in name only.
The other half of the street was dedicated entirely to beer. While beer is undoubtedly a crowd favorite, adding different options would create an opportunity to attract a wider audience and give families a fun weekend outing. Imagine the joy on children's faces as they enjoy playing games and participating in activities specifically designed for them. Imagine the delight on everyone's faces as they try traditional German food they've never tasted.
I would love to say more about this attraction, but there was only a little to choose from or report. With a more diverse range of activities, Chillicothe's Oktoberfest could genuinely become a celebration for everyone. If that is the goal, it would bring in more money and can be used to make the Historic District something to behold in the spring and summer.
Even though there was a limited amount to see, the Chillicothe Oktoberfest has potential. Bring in more German food vendors, maybe from Columbus, and invite them to share their items with us. Make the Chillicothe Oktoberfest something to behold.
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