Image by Blackbuad StadiumImage by 20081006oktober.jpg

Update October 20: The Post and Courier has a photo gallery from the fest. Check it out. Looks like fun.

Original post: Charleston's English-style stadium will be hosting a German-style Oktoberfest complete with beer tents, dancers, Oompah music, games, and eating contests.

The organizers write:
This years headline Oompah band are ‘Die Mitternachters’; in addition to live Oompah music there will be authentic German dancers, a wide selection of German beers and a variety of delicious Oktoberfest food options. The first 1000 festival attendees will receive a free commemorative beer stein.

Blackbaud Stadium will once again be transformed into a Bavarian-style beer hall with big tents along the South concourse for the stage and beer trestle-tables. The main beer vendors will also be arranged on the concourse although this year the lay-out will allow for a more open area to allow a greater selection.

The food will be served under additional tents placed on the stadium field; Oktoberfesters are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn-chairs.

Once again Charleston Oktoberfest will benefit a local charity with a portion of the proceeds going to Live 5 News’ Debi’s Kids and The Salvation Army Angel Tree.

Children’s events during the afternoon include mini-soccer games on the stadium field, a Mountain Slide, an inflatable combination game, a Hot-Shot Power-Kick game and a jump castle.

The 2008 Oktoberfest Corporate Challenge, the German Cup, will run during the Oktoberfest festivities with local teams competing in a variety of fun events including tug-o-war, barrel races, three-legged races and bratwurst eating competitions.

It's on Sunday, October 19, from 12 to 5 p.m. at Blackbaud Stadium (directions). Tickets are $5 in advance ($7 day of event), they can be purchased by calling (843) 971-4625.