Tradition means many things to many people. When we speak of tradition at the German-American Social Club at this time of the year, we are most assuredly speaking of a German Tradition - OKTOBERFEST!

Oktoberfest has its roots in Munich, Germany originating in the year 1810. During the month of October of that year, a royal wedding took place. Bavarian King Max Joseph decided that a royal wedding party for Crown Prince Ludwig who later became King Ludwig I, should be a party for all to remember. Indeed, it was a party that everyone did remember, evidenced by the fact that it became an annual event in Munich and it is known as OKTOBERFEST!

While OKTOBERFEST has evolved into what we all recognize it to be here in the U.S.A., the traditional concept is retained with the strong German flavor of its origin. The formula for an enjoyable, festive occasion is quite simple -- great food and drink, superb German style music, all together in an atmosphere that immediately imprints the mind with festivity! 

The President of the German American Social Club, Chairman Klaus Kohl, the Officers, Directors and all of the members, extend their hands as one to offer you ein Herzliches Willkommen (Heartfelt Welcome) to our OKTOBERFEST 2008!

Ms.Oktoberfest 2007, Sandra Hambling

As we approach the middle of October, the excitement starts to build as the tempo of activities increases during the preparations for the largest annual party in Southwest Florida. This will be the TWENTYSECOND ANNUAL OKTOBERFEST CELEBRATION at the German-American Social Club of Cape Coral on Pine Island Road, Rt 78. This is the beginning of FESTLICHE GEMUETLICHKEIT (festive comfort) during two weekends of merriment celebrating good fellowship with good food, drink and music that will surely set your feet to tapping.

The two weekends that have been designated for the celebration of OKTOBERFEST 2008 are:

October 16, 17 and 18, with the second weekend on October 24, 25 and26.

A huge tent is in place for this occasion with two alternating bands located on two separate stages, playing continuous music for your listening and dancing pleasure and a very large dance floor is located between the band stages. One band is the featured band direct from Germany! The music never stops.  Don't miss the "Chicken Dance" or other favorite music pieces.

Nearby, is the Bavarian Garden area with more musical entertainment. Several bands, including the  Club's own HAFENKAPELLE, a 32 piece brass band will be  playing your favorite folk music with  another dance area for your dancing enjoyment. And raise your glass and sing along with everyone when the German musical toast "EIN PROSIT" is played.

The facilities are all located on 25 acres of the German-American Social Club grounds and as you walk amongst the many smiling faces, you will find yourself quickly acquiring a festive mood. Happiness  can be contagious!Club members can be seen everywhere. Some members will be dressed in traditional German fashion such as lederhosen or various, colorful dirndl dresses. Club members are always ready to meet the visitors and extend a hand of welcome.

People can be seen eating and drinking everywhere! Germans have a long standing reputation for producing delicious food and drink at their celebrations and at OKTOBERFEST 2008 you will not go hungry -- or thirsty! The sights and aromas will tempt the most discerning palate! The German-American Social Club has three kitchens cooking such traditional favorites as Sauerbraten or Schnitzel. Full course meals are served in the beautiful, air-conditioned clubhouse in the "von Steuben Hall". You will be greeted when you enter and you will be served by charming waitresses at decorated tables.

Perhaps, you might prefer to visit one of the two kitchens that are located in the Bavarian Gardens and dine on a Half Roasted Chicken which has always received the highest praise. Then, also served here, are the ever popular Potato Pancakes with Applesauce!

And what would any German Celebration of this magnitude be without - German Sausages? It would certainly not be a traditional German Oktoberfest Celebration, that's certain! The third kitchen prepares three different kinds of delicious German Sausages and of course, many people will be sure to stop there.

There are also many food vendors located in the Oktoberfest area providing a variety of ethnic food such as Italian Pizza or Greek Gyros. Can you imagine why anyone would leave OKTOBERFEST 2008 hungry?

To add to your fun filled experience at OKTOBERFEST 2008, there are rides and games available for people of all ages. The kids love to ride around the Club grounds on the "Oktoberfest Kidde Train". Try your hand at hitting the bell with the huge mallet. There is also a smaller version for the younger set.

The ladies of the German-American Social Club will have hand made crafts along with many other souvenir items available. You might find something that will serve as a year round reminder of this fun filled occasion - a picture with MS. OKTOBERFEST, a T-Shirt or a hat.....