Platzkonzert Germanfest returns with food, music and - oh, yes - beer

If it's not broke, don't fix it. That's how Hoffman Estates views its annual Platzkonzert Germanfest, which returns this week in a format almost identical to last year's fest.

"The only (change from 2021) is that there will be no fireworks this year," said Suzanne Ostovsky, assistant to the village manager. "Fireworks in 2021 were actually due to the village canceling Fourth Fest that year."

The annual celebration will mark its 16th year. Visitors can enjoy authentic German music and beer from 5-11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 9; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10; and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 11, at Virginia Hayter Village Green, 5450 Prairie Stone Parkway, just north of the NOW Arena. Admission is free, and events take place rain or shine.

The festival will open at 5 p.m. Friday with a keg tap featuring Mayor William D. McLeod and village trustees. Entertainment will follow, with Alpine Blast playing from 5:30 to 10 p.m.

On Saturday, the music lineup includes the Mike Schneider band from noon to 3 p.m., Blaskapelle Milwaukee from 4-7 p.m., and Hello Weekend from 8-11 p.m. On Sunday, Die Musikmeisters Band will play from noon to 6 p.m.

The Kinderplatz will offer free children's activities from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. In partnership with the Hoffman Estates Park District, Kinderplatz will feature arts and crafts, an obstacle course, bounce house and more.

Contests will take place Saturday, including the hilarious beer stein hoisting at 3 p.m. and stein carry at 3:30 p.m.

The on-site Hideaway Brew Garden will feature a selection of German craft beer and food options. A commemorative mug will be available.

Parking will be available in the lot east of the venue, off Pratum Avenue, in front of the Tate and Lyle building. Handicapped parking and shuttle service will be provided. Limited parking will also be available on Prairie Stone Parkway.

For details, visit www.hoffmanestates.org/platz or call (847) 252-5446.