FORT IRWIN, Calif. — The Fort Irwin community had the opportunity to share in the worldwide tradition of Oktoberfest celebrating German culture on Oct. 12. The original Oktoberfest is an annual event held in Munich, Germany for two weeks that celebrates Bavarian culture with food, beverages, music, carnival rides and a parade.
The Fort Irwin Oktoberfest, hosted by Family and MWR, took place at Army Field and generated over 3,000 in attendance. Oktoberfest kicked off with a volksmarch and featured carnival rides, kids’ activities, static displays, food and beverage sales, many vendors, live music from a German oompah band, and a performance by the top Journey tribute band DSB. The event was busy until closing hours at 10 p.m.
The event was scheduled on the front end of a four-day weekend for Soldiers and their family members.
“Soldiers are working all the time,” said Coral Eginton, an archaeologist at the Fort Irwin Department of Public Works. “When they’re off, it’s important to bring families together to give them something to do.”
Fort Irwin is in a remote and isolated place, but events like Oktoberfest bring together Soldiers, families and civilians at a single location.
“It’s not just about serving your country, but also serving families as well,” said Retired Sgt. Maj. Mark Harvey, the Fort Irwin garrison safety director. “It’s all about the family, here at Fort Irwin.”
David DupreeDSB, a top-ranked Journey tribute band, headlined the Fort Irwin Oktoberfest celebration Oct. 12 at Army Field.
