New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
Details on the 2012 New Bedford Oktoberfest here: https://www.newbedfordguide.com/new-bedford-oktoberfest-2012/2012/09/14
Music could be heard rising up from downtown New Bedford this past Saturday, the first of October as pedestrians roamed the cobblestone streets, enjoying last of the warm weather. At the center of it all was Oktoberfest, which was taking place under a gigantic white tent in Custom House Square. The 6th annual Oktoberfest was quite a success, and a spectacular way to greet the start of fall.
Between the delicious beer selection, the music and the generally festive atmosphere, Oktoberfest was a very enjoyable way to spend my Saturday night. Oktoberfest started at 3pm in the afternoon, but I didn’t arrive until after dinner, and around that time many other people seemed to pile in as well. The crowds of people purchasing seasonal brews and culinary treats seemed to be in high spirits as they not only participated in a great party, but also an important fundraiser.
Proceeds from Oktoberfest, along with proceeds from all food sold by Rose Alley, went to two worthy charities this year. Oktoberfest is the largest annual fundraiser the South Coast Business Alliance (SCBA) hosts every year, and proceeds are always dedicated to helping associations that benefit at-risk youth. It seemed evident to me that the fundraiser was a success based on the number people under the tent. I spoke with a SCBA director Nick Francis and he confirmed these beliefs.
I can safely say that the 6th annual was one of our most successful Oktoberfests yet,” said Mr. Francis. “The support shown by those coming out in droves to attend our event is so rewarding. We could not make the event what it is without all of those in attendance along with all of our great sponsors and lastly the volunteers who are truly the pulse of the entire day. We, once again, proudly put together a successful event with no bumps in the road raising money and awareness for the Children’s Advocacy Center of Bristol County and Community Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts.”
Tickets to Oktoberfest bought you one free beer. I started off with a cool, crisp Wachusett Imperial Pumpkin Ale. After that, I bought some tickets to try a few additional brews. Tickets were $4 each and bought any beer, cider or wine being offered under the tent. My favorite drink that I sampled was the Not So Great Pumpkin Ale by local favorite, Just Beer. Despite what the name might suggest, I found it to be great. There were many other delicious options as well.
Food being served included brats ($5) and turkey legs ($7) from Rose Alley which came in generous portion sizes. No Problemos was also feeding the crowd with chips and salsa ($3), tacos ($3.50) and beef or chicken quesadillas for $6.50. Additionally, Pizan’s Pizza was present, selling pizza at $3 a slice.
In terms of music, the stage itself was very cool, with projectors and light displays and a very decent sound system to carry the sound of some very talented musicians into the night. As Mr. Francis put it, “Folding a professional all-star music lineup, our biggest brew selection and one of the countries premiere audio/visual companies, in MiddleHouse, into the mix leaves you hard pressed to find a better way to kickoff the fall season.”
