Annual Ompahfest at the Plattdeutsche kicks off Oktoberfest

The annual Ompahfest, which follows the Steuben Parade in Manhattan, is hosted at the Plattduetsche Park Restaurant and Biergarten.

For years, residents of Franklin Square and surrounding communities celebrate German-American culture with traditional oompah music, German food, beer, dancing, demonstrations, raffles, games and more. The festivity is a family-friendly event that lasts all day long.

The event is the most highly anticipated festivity of the year at the Plattduetsche.

“This year was no exception,” said Matt Buck, general manager of Plattduetsche Park Restaurant and Biergarten. “Beautiful weather, fantastic music, authentic food and great crowds made this one of our most successful Ompahfests ever.”

Johnny Koenig, die Spitzbaum and Bavarski all performed at the festival. Special guests from Germany also traveled to participate in the festival this year.

Folks were able to taste Bratwurst, leberkase, giant pretzels and more to keep their spirits up throughout the day.

“It’s a great way for us to celebrate the big kick off to Oktoberfest,” Buck said.

Oktoberfest at Plattdeutsche Park Restaurant and Biergarten will kick off with German music bands and dancing on weekends between, Oct. 5-14. The cost of admission is $5 for bands in the Biergarten.