Oktoberfest fun gets early start in Hoffman Estates

Sure, it's still only September - and just the second weekend of the month, at that - but that won't stop anyone from having some Oktoberfest-style fun in Hoffman Estates this weekend when the village hosts its 11th annual Platzkonzert Germanfest.

The fest takes place beginning at 5 p.m. Friday at the Virginia Mary Hayter Village Green, 5510 Prairie Stone Parkway, in the Prairie Stone Business Park, next to the Sears Centre Arena. Authentic food and Bavarian beers will be served as the band Centerfold rocks the Oompah tent.

The village, in collaboration with the on-site Hoffman Estates Beer Garden, will offer a variety of Hofbräu products, including a seasonal Oktoberfest beer.

Festivities resume Saturday morning with the Platzkonzert 5K Superhero Race at 9 a.m. Participants are encouraged to dress up as their favorite superhero while walking, jogging or running. Top finishers will win gift cards and all participants get a T-shirt. Visit www.hoffmanestates.org/platz to register.

Live music and other entertainment resumes after the race, with performances from the likes of The Internationals, the Johnny Wagner Band, the Euro Express, and the HOTT Productions Dancers.

Authentic bratwurst and potato salad will be served and visitors can tour the Audi of Hoffman Estates car exhibit, or learn a little at the library, farm, genealogy and fire truck exhibits.

Attendees can also compete in the traditional wiener eating, stein carrying, and Mr. Lederhosen best legs contests, while kids can enjoy activities including face painting, bounce houses, and a climbing tower.

Close out the day by kicking back in the Oompah tent with the Reely Dan Band.

For a complete list of activities, times and site map, visit www.hoffmanestates.org/platz.