Locals can immerse themselves in Culture and Family Fun at Panama City’s Oktoberfest

PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB) – You don’t have to travel all the way to Germany to immerse yourself in Bavarian culture this weekend.

People can experience culture and some family fun right here Downtown.

Destination Panama City hosts Oktoberfest every year.

Although Saturday will be the 36th year of the fun-filled tradition, the pub crawl known as the Volksmarch took on Panama City on Friday for the first time.

Hurricane Helene saved Franklin County

The Volksmarch is just a preview of what people can expect on Saturday.

“We have everything from authentic German food to things that the kids will love because we all know they get a little picky sometimes, but a lot of artisanal stuff. A total of 38 vendors will be down here. So we’re very excited,” said Sports and Special Events Coordinator Aubrey Haskell.

Attendees can expect to see Harrison Avenue come alive with Bavarian festivities.

There will be a large stage in front of the Panama City Center for the Arts where guests can enjoy live music.

There will be a costume contest, a contest of strength and endurance, and many other traditions.

“Just come down from three to nine and pick up the family. Bring your friends. It’s actually something for everyone. We even have a pretzel toss for the kids,” Haskell said.

The event brings the community together to have a good time and a good cause.

Panama City police sent officers to Taylor County following the storm

“At the Octoberfest Festival, we will be accepting aid for those affected by Hurricane Helene. So you can bring all your stuff where we’re going to the tent in Panama City,” added Haskell.

If you have extra gear for the storm come down to Oktoberfest on Saturday and stay for fun.

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