Oktoberfest Brings German Culture and Community Spirit Back to Columbia, South Carolina

Oktoberfest Returns to Columbia, South Carolina!

Columbia, S.C. — Fall is in the air, and so is the joyful spirit of Oktoberfest! This annual celebration of German culture is back in the South Carolina Midlands, bringing together folks from all around the area for a day filled with food, fun, and fellowship. People of all ages gathered at Incarnation Lutheran Church to dive into a piece of Germany right in their own backyard!

A New Adventure for Locals

Among the first-timers were local sisters, Renee and Darlene Coleman, who recently moved to Columbia. “We love exploring new cultures,” Renee shared enthusiastically. “This event is perfect for us because we want to try different foods and meet new people. It’s all about having fun and learning together!”

And it wasn’t just newcomers soaking in the atmosphere. Longtime friends Suzanne Papp and Brandi Williams reunited after years apart. “It’s the first Saturday in a couple of years that we both have off together,” said Papp with a big smile. Williams added, “I can’t wait to dance and learn some German dances. We’re going to make amazing memories!”

A Tantalizing Taste of Germany

As attendees walked through the event, they were greeted by the delicious aroma of traditional German cuisine. From bratwurst to pretzels, the food choices were absolutely mouthwatering! Delicious desserts and German-style beers added to the festive atmosphere. If one thing was clear, it’s that the people of Columbia know how to throw a party!

Dancing and Celebration

Of course, no Oktoberfest would be complete without lively music and dance! Visitors were treated to uplifting Polka performances, with dancers like Zanna Mills showcasing weeks of hard work and practice. “My mom is my biggest cheerleader, and that makes performing even more special!” Mills beamed proudly. The excitement in the crowd was infectious as everyone got into the spirit of the event, clapping and cheering for the dancers.

Bringing the World Closer to Home

For many who attended, the celebration wasn’t just a chance to enjoy great food and dance; it was also a way to reconnect with memories from travels abroad. Uriel Rengel, who visited Munich earlier this year, expressed his excitement about finding a little piece of Germany in Columbia. “When I saw the advertisement for Oktoberfest here after my trip, it reminded me of all the fun I had in beer halls in Germany,” he said. “This is definitely a must-visit each year from now on!”

Planning to Attend?

The Oktoberfest festivities continue, so there’s still time to join in on the fun! The final day for this year’s event is Sunday, October 13, and the festivities run from noon to 6 p.m. If you haven’t made plans yet, gather some friends and family and head over for a day filled with laughter, dance, and scrumptious eats.

The excitement is palpable, and newcomers and return visitors alike are already talking about making this event a yearly tradition. Who knows? You might just discover your new favorite fall festivity right here in Columbia!