By Joseph Knoop
It’s a church Oktoberfest event for the whole community, especially if you like classic German beer, food and a charitable cause.
The St. Alphonsus Oktoberfest, presented by the local Knights of Columbus Council 12510, will swing a stein into festivities Oct. 6 at the St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church.
“It’s like putting on a dinner and concert for one night only for 600 people,” event organizer Andrew Auersch said. “You start from nothing and have to figure it all out and put it up as you go.”
All proceeds from the event go to support the Zionsville Food Pantry, The Caring Center and other Knights of Columbus charities.
Events include a “stein holding” competition, forcing contestants to hold a 32 ounce stein filled with beer straight out from their body. The contestant that can hold it the longest without spilling will receive a $50 gift card. This all, of course, goes without mentioning the raffle or yodeling competition.
“We wanted to create a true community event for the Zionsville community and beyond,” Auersch said. “This isn’t just an insular church event. We want to get the community to come to us and have a good time.”
St. Alphonsus raised $17,000 at their event last year, and expects a surge of up to 100 additional attendees this year, Auersch said.
“Our goal is to help those in need in our community. Doesn’t have to be churchgoers or Catholics, just people in need,” Auersch said. “It’s a very gratifying thing to do.”
The St. Alphonsus Oktoberfest event is $5 per adult over the age of 21 and begins at 6 p.m. at 1870 West Oak St. For more information, go to ZionsvilleCatholic.com.
