Well known for its influence in numerous sporting events, both present day and historical, Indianapolis is an amazing vacation destination for the discerning traveler to America’s heartland! As the American Sports Capital of the World, you can enjoy both the Indianapolis 500 and the Allstate 400, not to mention the new home of the Indianapolis Colts. The arts and food scene in Indianapolis also boasts plenty of attractions for every traveler.
While you’re visiting, don’t forget to enjoy the amazing and original GermanFest! Taking place on October 13, there will be plenty of wonderful vendors and activities including the fan favorite Weiner Dog race. The GermanFest offers a fun and exciting opportunity to experience some genuine German culture while you stay in Indianapolis. It’s a fun filled event for everyone who has a little German in them, and we at ResortsandLodges.com wanted to learn more, so we had a chance to sit down with Becky Malkemes, Operations and Event Manager for the GermanFest, for some more information about this wonderful festival.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
BM: This year marks 10 years.
RAL: How many attendees do you draw?
BM: We have grown drastically over the years! In 2011, we drew about 3,000 people, and in 2017 there was about 6,500 that attended the event.
RAL: What demographic does your event attract?
BM: This event is for everyone! We have a large kids area which includes multiple games, crafts, and even a bounce house. There will be two stages of entertainment, weiner dog races, and so much more for every member of the family.
RAL: What makes the event unique?
BM: This is a one of a kind event held downtown. Our biggest draw has always been the weiner dog races, where last year we had over 70 dogs participating! In addition there is a steinheben stone lift competition and the Durstig Games, which include events like stein holding, a stein relay race and a keg toss competition.
RAL: Take me through a day in the event. What can I expect as an attendee?
BM: There is a large kids area with games, crafts, and a bounce house, not to mention the weiner dog races! There will also be two stages of entertainment featuring the Prost Band from Cincinnati, Jeff Kelly & The Graveyard Shift, the Liederkranz Brass Band and more.
RAL: What kind of food will be available?
BM: The Rathskeller will be open all day serving their traditional German grub. There will also be food from many other vendors available throughout the event.
RAL: What is the atmosphere like?
BM: This is a fun, festive day. We encourage everyone to dress for the party in their lederhosen!
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
BM: This is a one of a kind event in downtown Indianapolis that is meant for the entire family. Come and get yourself a brat while you watch the wiener dog races, grab a beer before joining the yodeling contest, take a free tour of the Athenaeum, check out the wonderful vendors, and send the kids in to burn off some energy in the bounce house. Your entire family is bound to enjoy this fantastic festival!
For more information about the GermanFest, please visit the event website here.