The countdown is on! This Saturday, September 13th, the River Lakes Civic Arena in Richmond will once again be transformed into a Bavarian village for the Cold Spring Area Maennerchor’s 89th Season Oktoberfest celebration. From 3:00–9:00 p.m., the community will gather for an unforgettable day of music, food, and fun rooted in German tradition.
The festival kicks off with doors opening at 2:30 p.m. All will begin with a stirring opening ceremony featuring the Cold Spring Area Maennerchor singing the Star-Spangled Banner, a blessing of the beer by Father Cletus, and the ceremonial first keg tapping by Cold Spring Mayor Dave Heinen and Richmond Mayor James Hemmesch. As steins are raised, the chorus and crowd will join in the traditional Ein Prosit and Bier Her, officially launching the festivities.
Live music will fill the arena all afternoon and evening with Tim Jarnot and his Polka Band playing from 3:00–9:00 p.m. Expect lively polkas, waltzes, sing-alongs, and the famous snake dance, keeping the crowd engaged and moving.
Between sets, festival-goers can take part in contests such as stein-holding, pretzel-eating, polka dancing, and a Bavarian costume competition. Dance lessons will be provided for anyone interested in learning to Polka. Outside games include bean-bag toss and hammer nailing. Families will also enjoy kids’ games with plenty of opportunities to join in the fun.
Of course, no Oktoberfest would be complete without hearty German food and drink. This year’s menu includes brats with sauerkraut, choice all-beef hamburgers, savory French fries, Bavarian pretzels, strudel, and German potato salad, paired with seven specialty Oktoberfest beers from across Minnesota, along with wine, seltzers, and soda.
Tickets are still available online at csmenschorus.com. Pre-sale packages are the best value: $20 for admission for two, plus two souvenir glasses and two first drinks. General admission at the door is $10, kids 11 and under are free, and ages 12–20 just $5.
This Saturday, celebrate heritage, music, and community at Oktoberfest 2025 — a festival for the whole family.
Maennerchor will sing during Oktoberfest Opening Ceremony.
