Prost to Hoffman Estates' Platzkonzert Germanfest
Get ready to hoist your stein this weekend when Hoffman Estates' Platzkonzert Germanfest returns to the Virginia Hayter Village Green, 5450 Prairie Stone Parkway, just north of the NOW Arena.
The annual celebration will mark its 15th year. Visitors can enjoy authentic German music and beer from 5-11 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 10-12. Admission is free, and events take place rain or shine.
"We had limited time to plan due to uncertainty with the pandemic, but this is a perfect outdoor setting at the reconstructed Village Green," said Gayle Vandenburgh, co-chair of the village's Platzkonzert Commission.
"There is plenty of outdoor space for social distancing while enjoying German traditions and music."
New this year will be fireworks at 8:30 p.m. Friday.
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.
True to the Platzkonzert name, a full lineup of music is planned over the three-day fest. Headliners include Alpine Blast at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Semple Band at 8 p.m. Saturday and the Johnny Wagner Band at 4 p.m. Sunday.
The on-site Hideaway Brew Garden will feature a selection of German craft beer and food options. A commemorative mug will be available.
View German engineering on display at the Audi of Hoffman Estates car exhibit.
Contests will take place Saturday, including the hilarious beer stein carry and stein hoisting.
For details and a full schedule, visit www.hoffmanestates.org/platz or call (847) 252-5446.