NEW ULM The “most German city in America” will celebrate Oktoberfest on Oct 7-8 and Oct 14-15.

Now in its 35th year, New Ulm’s Oktoberfest is modeled after one of the world’s largest celebrations held for several centuries in Munich, Germany, and features music, beer, and German heritage.

New Ulm’s version takes place during the first two full weekends in October with festivities happening at various locations throughout town. The main events are held in the historic downtown, Schell’s Brewery, and the Best Western Plus.

The downtown events on Saturday, Oct 8, include the Germanic-American Day Parade at 11 a.m. and then music and food at the corner of Center and Minnesota Streets. Local favorites Schell’s Hobo Band will play from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and a Johnny Cash tribute band, The Church of Cash, will play from 2-5 p.m..

The following Saturday, Oct 15, will feature the local Wendinger Band from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. followed by Switch Road Band from 2 to 5 p.m. German and American food provided by Turner Hall will be available for purchase both weekends. T

here will be German craft beer from Schell’s Brewery and local wine from Morgan Creek Vineyards available, as well as Angry Orchard Hard Cider and locally brewed 1919 Root Beer.

The Optimist Club will again be serving cheese curds, and locally grown produce will be for sale. George Wendt, aka: Norm from the TV show Cheers, will be making appearances and signing books on Saturday, Oct 15.

In 2014, New Ulm’s Oktoberfest was voted Best Oktoberfest by WCCO’s Best of Minnesota program, and has been ranked among the best Oktoberfest celebrations in the nation by Fodor’s Travel (2014), USA TODAY (2015), and Tripping.com (2015).

Besides the specific Oktoberfest festivities, many of the tourist attractions, restaurants, and retail shops look forward to welcoming festers to the community. Further information and details on the variety of Oktoberfest events and other New Ulm activities can be found on www.newulm.com. Contact chamber@newulm.com, 507-233-4300 with any questions.