19th annual 'UPtoberfest' celebrates beer, wine and charity

  19th-annual-uptoberfest-celebrates-beer-wine-and-charity.html
  Food and Wine on Sat, Oct 10th, 2025 by Upper

I will open the URL.Let's try.The 19th annual U.P. Oktoberfest, held in early October, was a highlight of the Upper Michigan calendar, bringing together a community of beer enthusiasts, wine lovers, and supporters of local charities. The event, which took place on the scenic grounds of the Alpena County Fairgrounds, drew crowds from across the region and celebrated the region’s German heritage, local craft brewing, and community spirit.

A Tradition of Community and Celebration

Since its first edition in 2006, U.P. Oktoberfest has grown into a staple of the Upper Peninsula’s cultural calendar. The festival’s focus on beer, wine, and charity has evolved over the years, but the core mission remains unchanged: to provide a gathering that showcases local brewers and vintners, offers a taste of German-inspired fare, and supports charitable causes that benefit the Upper Michigan community. According to the organizers, this year’s 19th edition marked a milestone in the festival’s growth, featuring over 20 breweries, a selection of boutique wineries, and more than 30 food vendors offering both classic German dishes and contemporary cuisine.

Beer, Wine, and Food Highlights

The beer lineup was a particular highlight, with a rotating schedule of craft brews, lagers, and seasonal specialties. Standout selections included a double IPA from the Alpena-based "North Shore Brewing Co.," a pumpkin ale from the nearby "Sagan Brewing Co.," and a classic German Märzen from "Oktoberfest Brewing." The festival also embraced the wine community, featuring a curated list of local vineyards such as "Upper Michigan Vineyards" and “Pine Ridge Estate.” Attendees were invited to sample a range of wines, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds, all produced within the region’s unique terroir.

Food at Oktoberfest was a blend of traditional German fare and modern culinary twists. Classic items such as bratwurst, sauerkraut, and potato salad were served alongside innovative offerings like smoked salmon with dill, cheese platters, and a vegan German-style pizza. A special “Schnitzel Station” allowed guests to try breaded pork and veal schnitzels cooked to order, while a “Goulash Grill” served spicy beef goulash in a hearty, slow-cooked stew. A selection of German pastries and desserts—including cinnamon rolls and apple strudel—rounded out the menu, ensuring that every palate found something delicious.

A Focus on Charity

Charitable giving was the cornerstone of this year’s Oktoberfest, a tradition that began in the festival’s early days when a portion of ticket sales was directed to local non-profits. The 19th annual event continued this practice, partnering with the “Upper Michigan Food Bank” and “Community Care Foundation.” A dedicated charity booth was set up at the festival grounds, where attendees could donate directly or learn more about the impact of their contributions. In addition, a silent auction featuring local artwork, handcrafted items, and unique experiences—such as a private tour of the “Sagan Brewing Co.”—was held throughout the festival, with all proceeds earmarked for the chosen charities.

During the day, the festival’s main stage hosted a series of motivational talks and community updates from representatives of the partnered charities. These talks highlighted the challenges facing the Upper Peninsula, including food insecurity, educational gaps, and the need for mental health resources. The messages resonated with attendees, many of whom took the opportunity to volunteer for upcoming charity drives or to pledge support for local shelters and community centers.

Activities for All Ages

While Oktoberfest was a celebration of beer and wine, it was also a family-friendly event. A dedicated kids’ zone offered games, face painting, and a “beer-themed” craft station where children could create their own “beers” using safe, non-alcoholic ingredients. A “Schnitzel” cooking demo for children and teens was a popular attraction, allowing them to learn how to make and cook traditional German dishes in a safe, fun environment. The festival also featured a pet parade, where local dogs and their owners dressed in German-inspired costumes marched through the fairgrounds to the tune of traditional German folk music.

Behind the Scenes: Organizing the Festival

The festival was orchestrated by a volunteer board of directors, composed of local business owners, community leaders, and passionate Oktoberfest enthusiasts. “We’re thrilled to see the community’s support grow each year,” said event coordinator Laura McConnell, who has served as a board member since the festival’s inception. “The partnership with local breweries and wineries has been crucial to our success, and we’re proud to highlight the craft that is so unique to the Upper Peninsula.”

Logistics for the 19th annual event included a well-planned parking scheme, with a dedicated space for RVs and a shuttle service connecting downtown Alpena to the fairgrounds. The festival’s sustainability team worked hard to ensure that waste was minimized, using biodegradable cups and recyclable materials throughout the event. A partnership with “Green Upper Michigan” helped to ensure that the festival left a smaller ecological footprint, a move that was well received by environmentally-conscious attendees.

Looking Ahead

As the sun set on the 19th annual U.P. Oktoberfest, the community reflected on the festival’s impact and its role in bringing people together. While beer and wine were central to the experience, the true highlight was the sense of community and the tangible help given to local charities. The festival’s organizers have already begun planning for the 20th edition, promising even more diverse craft offerings, expanded food stalls, and larger charitable partnerships. According to McConnell, “We’re constantly looking for ways to innovate while staying true to the festival’s mission: celebrating our heritage, supporting our community, and raising a glass to the people who make Upper Michigan special.”

With its blend of cultural celebration, culinary delight, and philanthropic purpose, the 19th annual U.P. Oktoberfest once again proved that Oktoberfest is more than just a holiday—it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of the Upper Peninsula and the community that supports it.