It’s not often that one associates one of Germany’s favorite celebrations with St. Patrick, but on Sep. 28, the two cultures will unite to raise funds for a food pantry and to support those suffering with dementia and their caregivers.
The first-ever Dunwoody Oktoberfest is set to bring the spirit of German culture in a free event at St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, 4755 North Peachtree Road from noon to 6 p.m.
The event will benefit the two of St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church ministries, including Malachi’s Storehouse, which provides food to approximately 1,000 people each week, and Anchor Place Respite Dunwoody, a community-supported ministry serving individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.
Malachi’s Storehouse, a food pantry in Dunwoody, distributes food, baby supplies and clothing every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Anchor Place is a community-supported ministry of St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church for people living with dementia and their care partners. Its mission is to provide social, emotional, and spiritual support for older adults living with memory loss and other cognitive impairments and ease the challenges of caregiving.
“St. Patrick’s has a tradition of hosting an Oktoberfest event, but this is the first time we’re doing it on such a large scale within the community,” Denice Dudley, chair and founder of the event, said in a statement. “We’ve received tremendous support from local sponsors and anticipate a strong community turnout, comparable to other prominent events hosted in Dunwoody.”
Attendees can expect authentic German cuisine and drinks, with traditional dishes and beverages available for sale in the festival’s beer hall and beer garden.
Children will explore KinderZone, a dedicated area offering carnival games and Oktoberfest-themed arts and crafts for children. Tickets will be sold at the event for access to unlimited games and/or crafts.
And of course, live polka music performances should add to the festive atmosphere, while a display of German sports cars in the Autobahn section will entertain car enthusiasts, the release said. Visitors can also browse a variety of unique crafts and local goods from vendors.
For more information and updates about the Sep. 28 event, visit www.dunwoodyoktoberfest.com.
