The spirit of Gemütlichkeit will be in full effect when Theory of Deadman take the stage to open Oktoberfest at Bingemans on Friday.
Bingemans has brought back The Kool Haus, the largest fest hall in Canada. It will be the spot with some of Canada’s biggest names set to perform over the next three weeks.
President Mark Bingeman told 570 NewsRadio, Oktoberfest has become a major part of what they do, and the live music is something the public has really latched on to.
“Over the years, we’ve really been focusing on the consumers and what they’ve asked us for and what they’re looking for. It’s great, we’ve got our house band, which is The Golden Keys, that provided the traditional German excitement music and really get the party started. Then we move into feature entertainment, which we find that the public is really craving for.”
This year’s line-up of feature performers is as good as they come.
Once again, Bingemans is partnering with local brewers to offer a wide variety of frosty beverages.
Bingeman says they’ve expanded the offerings to allow more people the opportunity to enjoy.
“Special this year, from a beverage standpoint, we actually have our own dedicated zero-proof bar. And we’re excited to have the folks from Athletic Brewing there as well as ClearSips with various cocktails. So, a wide variety of beverages for everyone, including gluten-free options.”
Bingeman mentioned that again this year, Jaggermiester has brought back the human foosball activity. That’s happening on the Kool Haus patio, which in itself is a destination, according to Bingeman.
Those planning to drive to the Kool Haus, parking is prepaid, which can be done through the website. However, Bingeman said over the years, they’ve noticed a trend. “We find that 80 per cent or more of our consumers are actually getting dropped off, which is great to see to keep everyone from drinking and driving.”
Speaking of legal modes of travel, GO Transit has announced it will be running the LederGOsen on the Kitchener line. The dedicated train will run exclusively on Oct. 11, between Union Station and the Kitchener GO station.
The official KW Oktoberfest keg tapping will happen around 12:00 p.m. Oct. 10 in Willkommen Platz in downtown Kitchener.