MUSCATINE, Iowa–With the earliest of trees starting to turn and a decided crispiness in the air in the early mornings, Muscatine residents have started to get excited for some of their favorite fall traditions. For many, this includes the second Pearl City Oktobrewfest. An afternoon of open air fun attended by some of the best breweries in the region, this year’s festival will wrap up a fantastic season of events put on by Keep Muscatine Beautiful, capping off a full weekend of things to do.
Pearl City Oktobrewfest will feature all of the fun activities of a traditional Oktoberfest without the expense or difficulty of traveling to Germany. From 1 to 4 p.m. Sept. 24, festival goers can sample beers from 20 breweries. Food vendors will have plenty of tasty meals and snacks available as well, keeping everyone full and satisfied throughout the event. Live music will create an enjoyable ambiance and put everyone in the mood for having a good time.
For those who would like to show off their competitive sides, Pearl City Oktobrewfest will have several contests to participate in. Champion singers can face off in a yodeling contest, while those with a big appetite can go head to head to see who can eat the most brats. Last year’s popular beer belly contest will also make a repeat appearance. Festival goers should also watch for some new competition opportunities.
Anyone hoping to get out and sip a few beers at this year’s Pearl City Oktobrewfest can get tickets in several ways. People may purchase them at the gate at riverfront, where the festival will take place, by contacting Keep Muscatine Beautiful organizers Brenda Christensen or Chris Boar, or by visiting the Pearl City Oktobrewfest ticket website. A $30 general admission ticket will get guests a tasting glass, while a $50 VIP ticket will allow for one hour early entry, an exclusive t-shirt, a lanyard, and a pretzel necklace.
However you choose to enjoy Pearl City Oktobrewfest, Boar and Christensen have high hopes for the event. “This year we know what to expect and how to make the event even more fun,” said Christensen “We expect more people, additional competitions, and even more fun to be had by attendees.”
“We didn’t know what to expect last year, but all beer vendors really enjoy the event and wanted to return this year,” added Boar.
For those who would like a longer weekend of celebration, Keep Muscatine Beautiful has two events planned prior to Oktobrew Fest. Sept. 22, the last Almost Friday Fest of the year will happen, with renowned Muscatine musician Monica Austin performing and everyone’s favorite lawn games, food vendors, and beverage tent coming back for one more Thursday evening of fun. Sept. 25, the first ever Barks and Brews will take place, where people can bring their well behaved dogs with them to enjoy two great musical acts, Muscatine’s own First Impression and fan favorite Ankus Khan.
All funds raised from ticket and beverage sales will go towards Keep Muscatine Beautiful’s efforts to work with the city to build an amphitheatre on the riverfront. People wanting to contribute more may talk to Boar and Christiansen about donating at least $50 to receive a waterfront ampitheatre venue for all, or WAVE, shirt.
