It’s official — it’s only three weeks to this year’s Effingham Oktoberfest. This marks the second year for this hugely popular event, which will again be held in Rincon’s McCall Plaza on Sept. 23 and 24.

The inaugural event last year turned out to be larger than anyone expected and saw crowds of up to 3,500 for the two days. Chamber officials said this year with more people aware of the festival and with the entertainment lineup, they expect to see between 3,500 and 5,000 visitors.

Chamber President Brooke Graham said she expects great crowds this year.

“With the expanded children’s area sponsored by Effingham Hospital, an exciting Battle of the Bands on Friday night, and the fabulous Drifters singing their hit songs, ‘Under the Boardwalk’ and ‘Up on the Roof,’ there is no telling how many people we’ll see this year.”

The Children’s Area will feature inflatables, a rock climbing wall, an airbrush tattoo artist, pony rides and more. There also will be vendors doing face painting and other children’s activities. Among the other vendors participating this year will be painting, photography, fine jewelry, quilting, soaps, candles, honey and more.

Chamber Director Rick Lott said he was especially excited to have a sweet grass basket maker in this year’s show.

“We have even more very talented artists and craftsmen in this year’s show, making this a great opportunity to start your Christmas shopping a little early,” he said.

Lott said there will also be booths by many of the community’s non-profit organizations and festival sponsors. Madrac Farms also will be on hand with fresh produce and pumpkins.

There are still a couple of daytime entertainment slots open and a handful of vendor spaces available. The food court is currently full and not accepting any other vendors. In addition to the Schnitzel Shack’s tasty German fare, there will be barbecue, funnel cakes, kettle korn, boiled peanuts, American foods, and one additional German food vendor.

Anyone interested in a space or in volunteering for the event should call the Effingham Chamber at 754-3301.

Effingham Oktoberfest is hosted by the Effingham Chamber of Commerce and sponsored in part by: Comcast, Georgia Power, Savannah Technical College, Coca Cola, Miller Lite, Fuller Chevrolet, Effingham Hospital and Arc Media.