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***image1***Ramstein-Miesenbach holds its first October fest today though Sunday in the center of town. A big beer tent is set up where organizers try to bring across an actual Oktoberfest atmosphere.
Two bands were invited to perform in the tent, said Ralf Hechler from the Ramstein-Miesenbach Advertising Association, which co-sponsors the event.
The party band, Mondstürmer, performs at 8 p.m. today, and the Habachtaler musicians appear at 8 p.m. Saturday. Tickets cost €6.
Regional music associations present brass music for free 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
“Of course, October fest features the typical Mass Bier (one liter of beer), which costs €5,” said Stefan Layes from the City of Ramstein-Miesenbach. Typical Bavarian food specialties such as white sausage, pretzels, leberkäse (hot bologna) and more are offered. “Visitors who show up in traditional costumes such as the dirndl and lederhosen get a free drink,” Mr. Layes said.
Saturday and Sunday, the October fest is being celebrated together with the annual Wendelinusmarkt. The market features about 100 vendors, craftsmen and store owners who present their merchandise in the center of town, which is closed to motorized traffic.
“We have several new vendors this year selling gifts, art and craft items, household accessories and a lot more,” Mr. Hechler said. “For the first time we ran out of space for vendors in the streets.”
The history of Wendelinusmarkt dates back to the beginning of the 18th century when most village residents were farmers, and an epidemic threatened Ramstein’s cattle. People started praying to Saint Wendelinus, the saint of plague, who was asked for help in case of contagious diseases. They promised to celebrate the day of Saint Wendelinus each year if the epidemic would end.
The first celebration was on a Monday in 1710. The market wasted away throughout the years until the Ramstein shop owners and businesses revived it in fall of 1986. The new Wendelinus market with Sunday shopping was born.
“We officially open the market by tapping the first keg of beer at 11 a.m. Saturday,” Mr. Hechler said.
Stores are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday. Market activities continue until 8 p.m.
Local tradesmen present their businesses and products. Entertainment is provided by a marching band and musicians as well as the local fitness studio and the Power Girls, the Ramstein Dancing Sports Association.
Local car dealers hold a car show Saturday and Sunday.
Besides enjoying shopping and entertainment, visitors can enjoy tasting a variety of culinary specialties including Palatinate, Asian and other international food items.
Together with the Ramstein Children’s and Youth Choir, the Kolping Family will sell coffee and homemade cakes.
“Like every year, all net profits will go the children’s cancer aid again,” said Ludwig Linsmayer, chief of the Ramstein Kolping Family.
“If we have nice and sunny fall weather, we’ll expect more than 15,000 visitors,” Mr. Hechler said. Free parking is available on several parking lots.
