PANAMA CITY, FL (WMBB) — Destination Panama City brought a taste of Germany to downtown this weekend.
They celebrated the city’s 36th annual Oktoberfest and welcomed the fall season.
“The community always comes out strong for this event. We just started at 3pm and the streets are already filling up. People dance to the polka music. It’s just a great fall event for the city of Panama City,” said Jennifer Vigil, president and CEO of Destination Panama City.
Locals can immerse themselves in culture and family fun at Panama City’s Oktoberfest
A number of attendees were dressed in traditional lederhosen clothing and almost everyone had a beer in their hand.
“I think our citizens really appreciate participating in different cultures, eating the bratwurst and listening to the polka music. It’s just a really fun, family-friendly event,” Vigil said.
Some locals say they came for the brews and to enjoy authentic German cuisine.
“My favorite part will always be the music, the food and the beer,” Vigil said.
Others joined the festivities to spend time with family and friends.
“It’s always fun, especially with this large group in this environment. Everyone’s having fun here and there’s a smile on everyone’s face, especially with the storm coming through and all. Everyone is still trying to keep their spirits up,” said Panama City resident Kevin Nunally.
But everyone came to have a good time.
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“I’m looking forward to spending time with family and friends and coming home to the air conditioning,” said Panama City resident Corbin Nunnally.
Oktoberfest was originally celebrated in October in Bavaria, a state in southeastern Germany. The celebration was moved to September due to the better weather in Bavaria at this time of year.
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