It's Happening: Oktoberfest is Coming to Bridgeport
By Julie Perine on June 19, 2022 from It’s Happening
Picture it. Oh - and try to smell and hear it. Grilled bratwurst, German beer, acoustic music, and chattering town’s people on a crisp, autumn afternoon. And when you leave the festive atmosphere, you take home with you a large basket stuffed with German specialty foods and drinks.
Now, mark your calendar because it’s going to happen here in Bridgeport. The first Oktoberfest to benefit United Hospital Center is slated for Friday, Oct. 21 on the grounds of Mountaineer Medical Building.
The U.S.-crafted baskets will contain food and beverage for two, including weisswurst, bratwurst, Bavarian potato salad, soft pretzels, stone ground mustard, pickled onions, Obatzda, Gebrannte Mandein, local honey, fresh apple cake and howlers of Oktoberfest beer.
Proceeds from the inaugural Oktoberfest will benefit pediatric and maternal/child-compassion, caring and comfort funds at UHC. According to Lora Edgell, director of development for UHC, funds will support purchase of toys, books, and crafts to help provide patients the ability to play and express themselves during hospitalization or while in the emergency department. Among other items to be purchased are electronic devices and games for older teens, as well as socks, onesies, clothing, pacifiers and newborn sleep sacks.
Hosted by the Auxiliary to UHC, the event is an additional fundraiser, joining the already-established Holly Ball and United Health Foundation Pro-Am Golf Tournament.
In fact, Oktoberfest was inspired by the past couple of Holly Ball events – which, because of the COVID pandemic – were transformed to pick-up events, rather than the traditional dinner/dance.
When planning for Holly Ball 2023 came around, committee members were very optimistic that we can return to the in-person event, which is scheduled for Feb. 4 at Pete Dye with an “Around the World” theme. (Save the date!)
But then the question came up: Should we offer a pick-up event, too? And that idea evolved into a totally separate event, held during the fall season. And what better theme to rally around than Oktoberfest? We are excited! We hope you are too.
There will be 250 baskets available for purchase. With that purchase, you will also be treated to the Oktoberfest experience, featuring bratwurst and beer sampling, live music, and interaction with fellow UHC-supporters.
If you’ve previously attended the Holly Ball, you will likely receive an invite via mail in late-August, but you don’t have to wait until then to get on board. All are welcome and encouraged to take part. Information will soon be released as to how you can reserve your basket.
Also keep sponsorship opportunities in mind. Details will soon be available. The Auxiliary to UHC so appreciates the support of local businesses and the community.
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