Fort Moore’s Oktoberfest returns with food, fun and music

FORT MITCHELL, Ala. (WTVM) – Fort Moore is hosting its annual German-style Oktoberfest at Uchee Creek Campground.

This free, weekend-long event will feature live entertainment, authentic German food, and carnival rides.

The vendors are set up, music is playing in the background, and my personal favorite, the food trucks, are lined up and ready to serve the crowds of hungry people.

“Today is the day that we’ve all been waiting for. Oktoberfest is mirrored on the first Oktoberfest that was held in Munich, Germany,” said Shannon Beck, marketing director for Fort MooreMWR.

Beck says many veterans spent time in Germany during their military careers, and Oktoberfest is a way to share German culture with local civilians. This event is also designed to raise money. Olga Kelly, president of the International Wives Club, says they participate in Oktoberfest every year to raise money for different causes.

“We support some of the local places here in Fort Moore,” Kelly said. “Right now, we are trying to get enough money together to get enough wreaths for the cemetery at Fort Moore.”

Michael Jackson, an army veteran and vendor, says this is his second year coming to Oktoberfest. He looks forward to seeing people socialize and show support for military personnel.

“So it’s a great thing when you come out and show support, and give support to our military. Because I remember a lot of times we are working hard,” said Jackson, owner of Willie & Ola’s BBQ.

Beck adds that this event took a full year of planning, but to her, it’s worth it when she sees the event unfold in real-time.

“When you are here on a Saturday and you see families that are out here, they’re having a good time, they’re enjoying the music, the kids are enjoying all of the kids’ activities and everybody’s happy, it really does put everything into perspective for me,” Beck shared.

Although this event is held on post, it is open to the public and will run until Sunday at 6 p.m.

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