Stomp on grapes, lift a glass at Lynfred Winery's Oktoberfest
Lynfred Winery's Oktoberfest features two days of German singalongs along with grape-spitting and -stomping contests - all tied to the Roselle establishment's wine heritage.
Indeed, this year's fest will feature an aptly named "Oktoberfest wine" that's an off-dry and fruity riesling.
The festival was started 40 years ago by Lynfred Winery founders Lynn and Fred Koehler and celebrates Koehler's German heritage and love for hospitality.
The Oktoberfest & Grape Stomp will be from noon to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, and noon to 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29, at the winery, 15 S. Roselle Road. Admission is $10 for adults and free for kids 13 or younger. Tickets for $1 are sold for food and beverages; wines are available by the bottle or glass.
Some of the proceeds will benefit Phil's Friends and Fetching Tails.
In addition to grape-spitting and grape-stomping contests, those dressed in Lederhosen or like Lucy (from "I Love Lucy") stomping grapes have a chance to win a spirited costume contest.
The festival is family friendly with kid competitions including cork tossing, similar to Bozo's Buckets, and free face painting each day.
The Roselle American Legion Color Guard will open the festival at noon Saturday, followed by a ceremonial toast of "Oktoberfest" wine by Roselle Mayor Andy Maglio.
For details, visit www.lynfredwinery.com or www.facebook.com/lynfredroselle/.