Howell Oktoberfest sees 450 guests for second annual event

Patricia Alvord, Livingston Daily
·2 min read

HOWELL — Sunshine, blue skies and temperatures in the 70s greeted 450 guests to the second Howell Oktoberfest celebration by Howell Main Street Inc. in the North State Street Lot on Saturday, Sept. 9.

"This year we were able to expand our capacity and sell general admission tickets at the door, which was a major change from the previous year," said Howell Main Street COO/Howell DDA Director Kate Litwin.

Dave Wells Strolling Oompah Band performed at Howell Oktoberfest on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022, in the North State Street Lot in Howell.
Dave Wells Strolling Oompah Band performed at Howell Oktoberfest on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022, in the North State Street Lot in Howell.

"I think that adjustment allowed some guests who came downtown for the night to make a spontaneous decision to come join in the fun and enjoy the festivities."

Litwin said 250 individuals bought tickets in advance and 200 more joined the party at the door.

"We had a fantastic, lively crowd at the event. The number of attendees surpassed expectations, based on attendance in 2022, and they were dressed in their finest dirndls and lederhosen, and really enhanced the overall vibe and experience," Litwin said.

Guests enjoyed access to snacks, drinks and stage performances from Die Dorfmusikanten German Band and The German Park Trachtengruppe Dancers.

"Attendees danced all night long, right up to the end of the event when the DJ kept the party going with dance favorites from the 80s, 90s and beyond," Litwin said.

Advance ticketholders enjoyed an authentic German meal from DeutchTroit.

"The food was amazing," Litwin said.

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Howell Main Street also held a "Best Dressed Contest," with more than 40 contestants. Winners included Matt Dahline of Howell and Megan Bridgett Bango of Berkley, who took home trophies and $100 in gift certificates.

"We can't host events like this without the dozens of volunteers who graciously donate their time, talent, and lots of energy, to ensure everyone has a great time in downtown Howell. Whether volunteers can contribute two hours a year, a month, or a week, there's a perfect role for everyone," Litwin said.

Those interested in volunteering can contact Lexie Wilcox at 517-540-6736 or email lwilcox@downtownhowell.org.

— Contact reporter Patricia Alvord at palvord@livingstondaily.com.

This article originally appeared on Livingston Daily: Howell Oktoberfest sees 450 guests for second annual event