Now in its 46th year, the Immaculate Conception Oktoberfest in July is the highlight of the summer for our parish family, residents of Willoughby and surrounding communities. Every third weekend in July, thousands of visitors gather on our parish grounds on Euclid Avenue to enjoy a wide variety of food, music, and entertainment for all ages. Join the Immaculate Conception Oktoberfest Facebook Page to stay up to date on the latest festival information.  

Oktoberfest Raffle

Once again, we are giving away $10,000 to one lucky member of our community. You may purchase tickets from any parishioner or in the parish office prior to the Oktoberfest, or stop by the main Raffle Tent or satellite tent during the Oktoberfest. Single tickets are $5.00 each, and we have ATMs on the grounds in case you forget to bring cash. Then stay around on Sunday night to witness us pull the winner from the barrel on the main stage. Don’t want to be out that late? That’s OK. Stay home in your PJs—but keep your phone handy so you can answer that call from us when we pick your name!

Chinese Auction

One of the most popular features of the Oktoberfest is our Chinese Auction. Each year, we raffle off over 70 prizes worth anywhere from $250 to over $1,000. Purchase your tickets in the tent across from St. Joseph Hall and then head inside to peruse our offerings in air-conditioned comfort. Typical prizes include valuable electronics, tickets for sporting events, area restaurants, food and business gift cards, outdoor equipment, family fun experiences, plus lots of cash! Be sure to make time to walk through this stunning display and choose your favorite prizes! Who knows—you might be a lucky winner.

Food Selections

What sets the Oktoberfest apart from other summer events is that most of the food available at the festival is prepared onsite by our parish volunteers. We offer a wide variety of cuisines at our different booths. Our German food booth offers schnitzel, sausage, kielbasa, bratwurst, potato pancakes, and a number of sides. Our Italian food booth is known for its cavatelli and meatballs.  American food, like burgers, dogs, pulled pork, wings, pierogis and cabbage rolls can be found in our Parish Food tent. For dessert, we have ice cream, apple strudel, and cobbler—or that festival favorite: funnel cakes! Click here to view the complete menu.  

Entertainment

Come for the food—but stay for the entertainment. We have many bands lined up to perform on the main stage and in the church tent. Genres include polka, country, contemporary, and classic rock, from bands such as Disco Inferno, Ulterior Motive, Burning River, Frank Moravcik’s Polka Band, Phil in the Blank featuring Fr. McNeil, and many more. See the full lineup on our website or join our Oktoberfest Facebook Page to receive event invitations and reminders for your favorite band. 

Fun for the Children

We are all about family fun! Bring your children and grandchildren and create core memories at the Oktoberfest! Get your strip of tickets and let them compete for prizes in our kids’ gaming area, with classic amusements like the Duck Pond or new ones like the Boom Blaster and Monster Blast. We also have a collection of bouncy houses and other inflatables for them to enjoy. Wristbands may be purchased at the Kids Games Booth. Be sure to also sign them up for the Baby Derby, Toddler Trot, and the Kids Dance Contests held on Sunday starting at 5:00 pm on the main stage. The festival is sure to be the highlight of their summer!

Fun for Older Kids (and Adults Who Feel Like Kids)

Want to try your skill at shooting hoops or making a hole in one at mini golf? We have both at the Oktoberfest! Or try showing off your strength at the High Striker. Challenge your friends to see how many times you can swing the mallet and ring the bell. Compete for prizes—and bragging rights.

Monte Carlo

On Friday and Saturday evening, head to the basement of St. Joseph Hall and try your luck at one of our classic games of chance. Whether you enjoy activities like poker, blackjack, or roulette, we have something for you. Participants must be 21 or over, and a valid ID is required.  

Oktoberfest Beer Truck

What would Oktoberfest be without that familiar mug of beer? Catch up with friends, neighbors, and old classmates over an adult beverage. In case of rain, you can keep the party going in our tented gathering area. We will have several brands of beer on tap and in containers, as well as a selection of wine, cider, and popular fruit-flavored alcoholic beverages. Current ID is required. For those under 21 and teetotalers, we have fresh lemonade, as well as pop and water available.

Immaculate Conception Oktoberfest Facebook Page

 Click here for Facebook page 

The entire parish comes together the third full weekend in July to sponsor the annual "Oktoberfest in July." The preparations involved are numerous, and we rely on the hands of many to successfully put on this event.

 Click here to Sign-Up 

(Link is active during the sign-up period each year)

The core committee for Oktoberfest meets once a month from January until August each year. New members are most welcome.