Businesses invited to take part in Oktoberfest

The Rotary Club of Newbury Park is offering opportunities for businesses to participate in its 20th annual Oktoberfest. The event, presented by Newbury Park Rotary and Farmers Insurance Group, will be held Sat. and Sun., Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, at Underwood Family Farms, between Thousand Oaks and Moorpark.

Last year, the event attracted more than 8,000 people.

"This is our second year at Underwood Farms," said MaryCatherine McBride, Newbury Park Rotary's Oktoberfest chairperson. "We were thrilled at the turnout and expect more than 10,000 people to attend this year. We're looking for companies who see Oktoberfest as a perfect way to brand their name with an audience that ranges from families with young children to seniors."

Businesses can participate at different levels and will be acknowledged in advertising, direct mail pieces, event signage, store posters, website promotions and publicity. Sponsors include Farmers Insurance, Harrison Industries, Downey Savings and the Ventura County Star.

The two-day Oktoberfest will feature a 25-piece German band, the German dance and musical group Tnze der Gemtlichen Schuhplattler, and the Spirit Cloggers. Both days will include a number of contests, including

the best-dressed Bavarian costume (lederhosen and dirndls) contest, stein-holding contest and beer-drinking contest. Prizes will be awarded to the winners. Family activities at Underwood Farms include a petting zoo, giant slingshot, pick-your-own pumpkins and free hayrides. Authentic German food will be available as well as a full food court.

"Our Oktoberfest is created in the spirit of the original Oktoberfest that began almost 200 years ago in Germany," said McBride. "It's a celebration of community." Craft booth spaces are also

available. Food booths are all reserved. For more information, call McBride at (805) 701-7248 or visit the Rotary website at www.nprotary.org.