Montrose Oktoberfest returns this weekend with a lineup of local breweries, live music and classic festival contests, all in support of All Points Transit.
The festival, hosted by the Black Canyon Homebrewers Association, will feature about a dozen breweries, plus wine and cider options for the first time. “We’ve got a dozen breweries lined up. Plus the new winery will be there. That’s new this year,” said Eric Svensen, president of the Homebrewers Association. Big B’s Hard Cider will also be on tap in the Homebrewers Tent, along with selections from local distributors and liquor stores.
Live music will include the Black Canyon Boys as the warm-up band, followed by headliner Cousin Curtis, a Montrose-based performer known for his energetic mix of folk, blues and Americana. “He’s a good local favorite,” Svensen said.
Alongside beer tastings, festival-goers can compete in traditional Oktoberfest games. This year’s stein-holding contest will use authentic ceramic steins, adding what Svensen called “a fancy touch.” While organizers are scaling back on circus-style entertainment, attendees can still expect the stein-hoisting and possibly a costume contest.
The event raises money for All Points Transit, a nonprofit that provides transportation services across Montrose and surrounding counties. “Support’s a good cause,” Svensen said. “All your friends will be there. If they’re not, they’re not your friends.”
Montrose Oktoberfest is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 27, at Centennial Plaza in downtown Montrose. Gates open at 1 p.m., with unlimited tastings included in ticket purchase. Food vendors will also be on site.
Svensen said the festival is the perfect way to close out summer. “It should be good weather. We’ve had pretty good weather the last few years,” he said. “It’s the best way to wrap up the summer.”
Tickets and more information are available at montroseoktoberfest.com or through All Points Transit.
