During the first weekend of October, St. Joseph School in Lockport on Madison Street hosts its own Oktoberfest. The event attracts people of all ages to come together and celebrate the season. 

There is no fee for admission or parking. Oktoberfest runs 3 days, typically either the last weekend of September or the first few days of October. This year the fest took place from September 29th to October 1st.

Music, food, crafts, and carnival rides are all offered. Across East 5th Street is the carnival that offers a wristband special for $20, and those with it can ride any ride for free.

Inside the school gymnasium, there is a food court with different types of food from nachos to beef sandwiches. Also, there’s a craft show where local businesses gather to advertise and sell their products to the guests. The remaining activities are offered in the school parking lot on East 5th Street.

Underneath the shelter of a tent, there are different bands on all three nights who perform. This year the Gina Glocksen Band played on Friday; Strung Out played on Saturday; and Eddie Karosa, Jr. and His Boys from Illinois played on Sunday.

There is a tent for children’s activities, which include, but are not limited to, pumpkin painting, face painting, hair braiding and coloring, and scarecrow building. A beer garden is also found under the tent where adults can mingle while drinking.

This fest attracts many people, including children from host school St. Joseph School, LTHS students, and the surrounding neighborhoods. The fest takes many volunteers to complete these activities, so it is a great opportunity for teens to acquire service hours.

One LTHS freshman, Lindsay Morgan, says of the fest: “I enjoyed Oktoberfest because it’s a great way to enjoy the company of friends and family in a safe and fun environment.”

Oktoberfest in Lockport is one of the ways for family and friends to come together and celebrate the fall season.