By Je’Nisa Waugh, DVI Intern
It’s that time again to raise spirits high and glasses even higher for the 4th Annual Oktoberfest at Art Walk on Oct. 5th. Oktoberfest is an autumn festival traditionally held in Munich, Germany that features beer-drinking and cheerful festivities. With thousands of people enjoying live oompah-pah music, German-inspired dishes and a biergarten block party brewing with German culture, things can get a bit hectic.
Here are a few tips to remember while enjoying your time next Wednesday:
Tip #1 – Get There Early
An extended Art Walk event filled with beer?! One can only imagine that #DTJax will be filled with over 20,000 people trying to enjoy drinks, local art, live music and other activities. If you want to get a good seat and don’t feel like waiting in line for an hour or more, then you should get there early.
#DTJax Oktoberfest will showcase artists, dancers, musicians, brewmaster’s and so much more. With live music, enjoy a jam session at the Front Porch of the Jacksonville Landing, Hourglass Pub and 1904 Music Hall. Compete in interactive games such as a brat-eating contest, giant jenga and yardzee. Enjoy local art & artisans such as Leon Bradley and exhibits in the Southlight Gallery. Besides Oktoberfest being centered around beer, this event is also super kid-friendly with a kid zone, a carnival zone, a balloon artist, a pumpkin patch, painted pasta jewelry, face painting and more.
Tip #2 – Become a VIP
Did someone say free #DTJax swag?!
If you are looking for unlimited beer, less crowds and delicious food then becoming a VIP is the way to go. You’re already a very important person we just want you to have the experience you deserve. Get your VIP tickets today!
Tip #3 – Pace Yourself …It’s a marathon, not a race
Attempting to chug a liter of beer for a world record sounds pretty exciting, but finding yourself sleeping on a bench or having your friends leave early to take care of you is not a great look. Plan ahead for transportation, have a designated driver or take an Uber.
Local brewing companies like Bold City Brewery, Intuition Ale Works and River City Brewing Company will be in attendance and some will be unveiling new Oktoberfest beer. You don’t want to pass out on this experience.
Tip #4 – Stay Hydrated
Yes, we realize there will be tons of beer. However, drink lots of water and other beverages to stay hydrated and hopefully minimize the upcoming hangover. Stop by the food truck village and drink water to quench your thirst.
Tip #5 – Eat Often
Common sense, right?
There’s going to be German beer, craft beer, domestic beer and there’s even a chance to encounter some VIB’s (Very Important Beers). Trying all the different “liquid gold” can be exciting, but you can easily forget to eat.
No worries, there’s plenty of food from brat-eating, weiner dogs, giant pretzels and more, food is everywhere. Check out food truck village at the Regions Bank lot and the entire #DTJax restaurant directory.
Tip #6 – Have a Great Time
This one is pretty simple to achieve, you would have to try really hard not to enjoy yourself. Remember these tips, put a little polka in your step and enjoy an event that is filled with good food, art and drinks.
Remember parking is free Downtown after 6 p.m. at the parking garage on the corner of Clay and Adams St. on Art Walk nights. Thanks to JTA, we have even more parking at the Prime Osborn Convention Center. If you feel far away from all the action, the Skyway is free with extended hours till 11 p.m. during Oktoberfest, so you can stay later and experience a little Art Walk After Dark, which is celebrating its one year anniversary in #theelbowjax!
For more information check out iloveartwalk.com. #ProstDTJax!