Get ready for the 20th annual Hilo Bay Oktoberfest

The popular Hilo Bay Oktoberfest is celebrating two decades of fun and fundraising sponsored by the Rotary Club of Hilo Bay.

This year’s event is slated for 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, at Sangha Hall in downtown Hilo.

Hilo Bay Oktoberfest features German-style food, locally produced beer and other refreshments, and turns Sangha Hall into a brauhaus atmosphere with music and live and silent auctions.

“The money we raise supports projects in our local community that have come to depend on us,” said David DeLuz Jr., co-chair of the Oktoberfest and past president of the Rotary Club of Hilo Bay.

“Our local scholarships and service have had an impact on East Hawaii for more than 30 years. For 20 years, Oktoberfest has help us fund that service,” said Junichi Noumaru, 2019-20 club president.

“Money raised by the Oktoberfest also help international efforts, such as eradicating polio, promoting education and water sourcing across the globe,” said Anita Cunningham, an event co-chair.

Hilo Bay Oktoberfest is a family-friendly affair, and children 10 and younger are admitted free.

Music will be performed by The Big Island Beerfesters. Darin “DC” Carlson will be master of ceremonies for the evening. A costume contest will award prizes to the “Best Fraulein” and “Best Herr.”

Advance tickets are $50 per person and are available online at www.hilobayoktoberfest.com or from Rotary Club of Hilo Bay members. Tickets at the door are $60.