Ozark preparing for first annual Oktoberfest

OZARK, Ala. (WTVY) - A little bit of Germany is taking over Downtown Ozark, as local businesses are getting set to host the first Oktoberfest.

It was a plan John Varney, owner of Benchmark and Ozark Cigars, thought he could accomplish himself. “We started alone with just the Loose Brick Coffee house along with the Blue Agave and it just grew.”

But it ended up turning into much more.

“I’m really excited for the fact that it’s not just myself but it’s a lot of businesses and vendors and sponsors coming together to make something grow organically,” said Varney.

While the city has its own planned events, this was one where the businesses came together.

Businesses like Sanders Plumbing and Electrical, Lannie’s Mustard Seed, Slap Nuts Cattle Co, CB Kettle Corn and Truth Serum Football to name a few.

“They all have the same thing in mind that’s bringing something to Ozark concentrating what the city can do for them it’s what the businesses can do for the city,” said Varney.

With a menu of German foods from Difilippos and Blue Agave and a full list of actives being hosted by the businesses.

“We’ve got Barefield’s which is a clothing store that is going to sponsor putting the football game up, along with Market on Broad doing a costume contest we have a hotdog eating contest, cornhole, and a dunk booth”

Lil Jimmy Reed will be a part of the festivities playing throughout the day. Oktoberfest Grand Marshall – Ryan McGarvey – will kick everything off at 2 PM on Saturday, September 18 with events lasting until 8 PM.

To find a list of activities going on you can go to the Benchmark Facebook page.

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