Oktoberfest & Celebrate Gaithersburg Changes

Gaithersburg is making changes to two annual street festivals based on public discussion at Mayor and city Council meetings and work sessions. The two festivals that will be modified are the Oktoberfest in the Kentlands and the Celebrate Gaithersburg in Olde Towne. Oktoberfest will expand to accomodate more stages and activities. Celebrate Gaithersburg in Olde Towne will be moved from September to June of 2014.

“Periodically it’s helpful to step back and take a look at the events we are hosting,” said Arts & Events Division Chief Denise Kayser. “Our community is constantly changing, and it’s important that our fairs and festivals evolve so they continue to be enriching, enjoyable and culturally relevant.”

The 22nd annual Oktoberfest in the Kentlands, planned for Sunday, October 13 from noon to 5 p.m., will expand beyond its traditional location on the Kentlands Green and grounds of Kentlands Mansion to now include activities along Main Street and Market Square. More space is needed to accommodate additional stages, a Business Expo area, a new Wine Terrace, the traditional Beer Garden, and more family activities. The festival areas will be connected by docent-led trolley rides and marked walking paths.

Celebrate Gaithersburg in Olde Towne will continue as the city’s premiere street festival. Moving the event to June will allow staff sufficient time to completely redesign the festival while reducing the impact of coordinating the Kentlands/Lakelands 5K race, the Labor Day Parade, Celebrate Gaithersburg, and Oktoberfest, all in a six week period.

Designed as a joyful celebration of the start of summer, Celebrate Gaithersburg will feature headline entertainment, multiple stages, enhanced food offerings, and specialty themed areas. It will continue to include the announcement of Gaithersburg’s annual Citizenship Awards. Celebrate Gaithersburg in Olde Towne is scheduled for Sunday, June 8, 2014.

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