Rotary Club Oktoberfest ends Sunday in Palatine

It was family day Saturday at the Rotary Club of Palatine's three-day Oktoberfest, with activities including a bicycle ride, face painting, balloon art, a variety of children's games and a soccer station.

Oliver Girke, Rotary Club of Palatine president-elect, said the Friday night crowd was the largest for the fest yet and he expects this year's three-day crowd total will exceed last year's.

The festival, on the corner of Smith and Slade streets south of the Metra train station, will continue from noon to 6 p.m. today, featuring authentic German music, food, beverages, and activities for all, much taking place inside a large heated tent.

The musical lineup Sunday features Die Musikmeisters onstage at noon, followed by Johnny Wagner at 3:30 p.m.

Food vendors include Heybeck's Meat Market, Morkes Chocolates, Tre Amici Pizza, Mudslingers, and the Sons of the American Legion, which will be serving roasted corn. Beverages include Schofferhofer and Radeberger beer, as well as a special “Oktoberfest” and Paddy Pale Ale beers brewed by The Wild Onion Brewing Co. in Lake Barrington. Pop and water, traditional Landjaeger sausages, pretzels, and popcorn will also be available.

All monies raised at Oktoberfest help support charities and community projects.

For a schedule of events and to learn more about The Rotary Club of Palatine, visit at www.palatinerotary.com/Oktoberfest or email oktoberfest@palatinerotary.com.