As generously as the ales and lagers poured inside the beergarden, thousands made their way to McCall Plaza Friday and Saturday for what is hoped to be a wonderful new tradition in Effingham, the first annual Oktoberfest.

 

“I think everything went excellent. The community really came out and showed support,” said Tess Moore, executive director of the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce. “They seemed to enjoy the event. We had lots of vendors, lots of support from our community businesses coming out to set up booths.” 

 

There were more than 70 booths between the McCall Plaza parking lot and the adjacent grassy lot where visitors could buy goods and crafts from local vendors, support local nonprofits and learn more about the Oktoberfest sponsors.

 

State Rep. Ann Purcell helped kickoff the event Friday evening, dressed in traditional German garb. She enlightened the audience reading a letter from the German consulate in Atlanta, mentioning that Sept. 24 marked the 200th anniversary of the first Oktoberfest in Germany. Later that night, Moore boasted an excellent turnout for the Chuck Courtenay Band.

 

 

For the complete story, see Tuesday's edition of the Herald.