Submitted article
It is time once again for Galion Oktoberfest, to be held September 25, 26 and 27. This year marks 39 years of a fall festival with music, food, and rides.
Galion has held some form of fall festival since 1920. As in the past Oktoberfest will feature some of the finest musical entertainment the state has to offer on two stages plus great food and fun rides.
On Thursday, Sept. 25, at 6:30 PM, the Main Stage at Harding Way W. and Union St. will feature the John Kennedy Orchestra. This 16 piece big band is without doubt one of the favorite big bands in the area. They have been together for over 50 years entertaining people with their big band music.
On Friday, Sept. 26, at 7:00 PM, the Main Stage will shift gears to an evening of high powered rock-n-roll featuring the incomparable Direct Energy. Direct Energy is a 9 piece rock band sporting 2 trumpets, 2 saxes, piano, bass, drums and lead guitar plus an unbelievable lead singer. They play the music of Chicago, Blood Sweat and Tears, and more.
On Saturday, Sept. 27, the music continues beginning at 12:00 with the unique sound of Presidential Brass. At 2:00 PM the festival offers the easy listening sounds of Standard Time. At 4:00 the music continues with the Dick Mackey Sextet. Mr. Mackey is crooner in the style of Mel Torme. At 6:00 PM big band returns with The Erik Gimbel Orchestra. Erik Gimbel’s band consists of some of the finest musicians in America. The musical selections are culled from the finest big bands of the past, plus original compositions and arrangements. At 8:30 PM the main stage closes with one of the brightest new names in country music, the Jessica Hannan Band. Jessica covers classic country and some of her own original music. Jessica has a new album, being produced in Nashville, coming out this fall.
On Stage Two on Thursday, at 6:30 PM we will feature the incomparable Semer Bros. These pros have been performing for over 30 years. Their harmonies are reminiscent of the Eagles On Friday, we kick off the evening at 7:30PM with the rock sounds of Viper. The music continues at 9:00PM with the one and only Frank Medley and Get A Way. This band is one of Galion’s Oktoberfest popular favorites. The Elks will be hosting a Bier Garten featuring live entertainment on Friday, Local Groove and Saturday, Fearless Heart.
The Christian/Gospel Stage located at the park square gazebo features 21 acts over the three days of the festival. A wonderful three days of fellowship.
The Crawford County Arts Council will again sponsor Art in the Alley. You are invited to create your own works of art in chalk on the buildings and walkways. The Brush and Pallet Art Club will be hosting an art show and sale during the festival.
As usual, Oktoberfest has a wonderful array of food vendors featuring Smokin’ Joe’s Ribs, Louisiana Grill’s Bourbon chicken, Marjon’s famous shredded chicken sandwich, Rudy’s Buffalo Burgers, and of course brats, Italian sausage, funnel cakes, gyros, crepes, and all the festival foods we love!
D & R Shows will return as the midway ride company for the Oktoberfest, which will also feature a wonderful array of games for all ages.