Woosterfest kicks off downtown for 41st time Sept. 27-28
A downtown Wooster tradition since 1983, Woosterfest is coming Sept. 27-28. One of its most popular events is the Wiener Dog Race & Costume Contest on Saturday, which always draws a crowd. It will kick off at noon on South Market Street.
Now in its fourth decade of providing Wayne County with fall fun, Woosterfest has become a tradition to mark the changing season.
To celebrate year No. 41, the Oktoberfest-style event, set for Friday, Sept. 27 and Saturday, Sept. 28 throughout the streets of downtown Wooster, is sure to be fun for all ages, said Sara McFarland, events and programming coordinator for the Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce, which coordinates the event.
“The first Woosterfest was held in 1983, so we are so excited to be celebrating 41 years this year,” McFarland said. “This free, Oktoberfest-style festival offers live music, unique food vendors, an ever-expanding Bier and Weingarten, and activities for the young and the young at heart.”
The weekend will start Friday with the official keg tap and the opening of a variety of food vendors, ranging from traditional German dishes to classic American barbecue, McFarland said.
“There will also be more than 40 art and craft vendors with unique gifts, décor, products and more. Each afternoon and evening features different artists and bands,” McFarland said.
Friday night will include the Woosterfest Cornhole Tournament, Stein Holding Competition and the BG’s Pig Mac Eating Competition. The Wiener Dog Race & Costume Contest, a favorite of many visitors, will highlight Saturday’s activities, and attendees can watch it in person when it kicks off at noon on South Market Street.
It also will be streamed on the chamber’s Facebook page or stop by the Biergarten to see which wiener will be the winner, McFarland said.
The Sausage Toss will follow that afternoon, and the Beer Stein Race will cap off the contests for the weekend when teams of two race through an obstacle course to find out who is able to fill the barrel faster.
“We will have a variety of craft and domestic beers available in the Biergarten, as well as various wines from local wineries in the Weingarten,” McFarland said. “The Guardians games will be on the big screens on both Friday and Saturday, so attendees can still watch the team while enjoying the festival.”
Woosterfest isn’t just for adults, as there will be plenty of activities geared toward the younger generation too. Kinderplatz will be open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday with inflatables, crafts, pumpkins and more. Also that day, there will be the Free Throw Shootout for both youth and adults, as well as a cruise-in.
“This event allows people to come into the community from all over to enjoy our beautiful shops, restaurants, activities and downtown area,” McFarland said. “It is a versatile event with contests for those with a competitive spirit, activities for kids, great live entertainment in a variety of genres, and an extensive beer and wine selection. Animal lovers can enjoy the wiener dog race, and if anyone needs a fair-food fix, there are a variety of food vendors sure to satisfy any craving.
“We also bring in German food vendors, including Schmidt’s from Columbus, to offer authentic foods that fit the German inspiration behind the event. It’s a fun weekend that kicks off the fall season, and with so many activities to choose from, it’s easy to want to come back year after year.”
Those who attend Woosterfest’s activities have come to expect them year after year because they enjoy seeing the competition that comes with them.
“The contests we offer are traditions at this point. Most give a nod to the event’s Oktoberfest roots, such as the Stein Holding Competition and the Beer Stein Race,” McFarland said. “We’ve put our own spin on some traditional Oktoberfest activities with the Pig Mac Eating Competition and Sausage Toss, and the cornhole tournament is always popular. The Wiener Dog Race is definitely the largest competition and brings in people from all over.
“New this year, we are excited to offer a photo contest, with bonus points given to anyone in festive attire. Participants can share their photos with the hashtag #Woosterfest2024. Winners will receive a gift card and a prize package.”
Community members are always encouraged to participate in the Woosterfest events, whether it’s by competing, volunteering or simply cheering on the participants. Be sure to follow the Wooster Chamber Facebook and Instagram pages to see what local downtown businesses will offer during Woosterfest.