A crisp autumn afternoon at the Baldwin Community Garden brought residents together for a day of beer, brats and camaraderie as the Baldwin Civic Association hosted its seventh annual Oktoberfest on Saturday, Oct. 19.
From 2 to 6 p.m., visitors enjoyed beer tastings from local craft brewers, German-inspired foods, family games and live entertainment. The event reflected the civic association’s mission of “fostering our wonderfully diverse community and maintaining the quality of life in Beautiful Baldwin.”
This year’s Oktoberfest drew one of the largest crowds to date, with more than two dozen local vendors, food purveyors and community groups across the Baldwin Community Garden. Families and friends filled picnic tables and tents throughout the afternoon, sampling local fare and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Many attendees said Oktoberfest was more than just a party — it was a chance to connect with neighbors, support small businesses and celebrate the fall season together. Local eateries, including Beach BQQ and The Irish Pub, provided food throughout the day, while craft beer enthusiasts sampled brews from Lithology Brewing in Farmingdale, Somerset Brewing in West Hempstead, Jones Beach Brewing in Point Lookout, Simple Brewing in Manhattan, South Shore Brewing in Oceanside, and Barrier Brewing Co., also in Oceanside.
“The Baldwin Civic Association’s 7th Annual Oktoberfest exceeded all expectations,” said Kimberly Malone, president of the Baldwin Civic Association. “The weather was perfect, the food outstanding, and the sense of community stronger than ever. Families, neighbors, and local representatives came together to relax, laugh, and celebrate right here at home. We’re deeply grateful to our six craft brewers, local favorites The Irish Pub and Beach BBQ, the Baldwin Historical Society, and all our generous sponsors for making it possible.”
The festival’s family-friendly atmosphere — with children’s games, nonalcoholic beverages, and a relaxed garden setting — made it an event that appealed to all ages.
Assemblymember Judy Griffin, who attended the event, praised the volunteers and local vendors for making Oktoberfest a success.
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the incredible volunteers who made this event possible, as well as to our amazing local vendors — The Irish Pub, Beach BBQ, and all the talented local breweries that brought their craft to the table,” Griffin said. “Events like these remind us how special Baldwin is — a community built on connection, friendship, collaboration, and pride.”
Griffin added that she was “thrilled to join the Baldwin Civic Association for their seventh annual Oktoberfest at the Baldwin Community Garden,” calling it “a wonderful celebration of community spirit — neighbors coming together to enjoy great food, local brews, and the beautiful fall weather right here in Baldwin.”
