Oktoberfest celebration debuts in Los Lunas this weekend

LOS LUNAS — Whether you’re a beer or bratwurst connoisseur or just looking for a good time, the inaugural Oktoberfest in Los Lunas on Saturday, Oct. 19, has something for everyone.

“We’re excited to provide this for Valencia County residents,” said Rhona Espinoza, executive director of the Greater Valencia County Chamber of Commerce. “It looks like it’s going to be a beautiful day, so come enjoy the music, the beer and wine and also the amazing merchandise and food trucks we’ll have there.”

Oktoberfest, which traditionally features a beer festival and carnival, is an annual celebration that originated in Germany in the 1800s. Many cities across the world have since hosted their own rendition of Oktoberfest as it’s an event enjoyed by many.

This weekend’s festival in Los Lunas is sponsored by the GVCCC, Kiwanis Club of Los Lunas and village of Los Lunas. It will be held at the Badlands Drive-In next to the Los Lunas Sportsplex at the corner of N.M 314 and Morris Road.

The event runs from 12-6 p.m., and a $35 ticket will cover your entry and access to five beer and wine vendors that visitors can visit and sample at their leisure.

“You get a ticket for each of those vendors, present it to them and they give you a 1 or 2 ounce tasting. You also get a nice, commemorative pint beer glass and a wine glass, and you get to have two pints of whatever beer you like the best,” said Espinoza.

If you do not want any alcohol, you can still purchase a general admission ticket for $5 to enjoy the rest of what the event has to offer, including several food and merchandise vendors, games and music from a local radio station that will be on site to keep the good times going.

Seeking to keep the event family-friendly, kids 8 and younger get in for free, and there will also be activities for them to enjoy. For instance, there will be wooden DIY kits donated from The Home Depot that children can have fun constructing and decorating.

“Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of our village during this festive season,” an event invite read. “Mark your calendars and bring your friends and family along for a day of laughter and memories at the village of Los Lunas Oktoberfest!”

The idea for the event came about from the Los Lunas Kiwanis Club, which aims to make a positive impact on communities by helping children thrive. GVCCC and Kiwanis Club president Andrew Spears said they wanted to make a brew fest happen here in the county, and thanks to the partnership between all the organizations involved, the idea has become a reality.

“I think it will turn out really nice,” said Espinoza. “We’re really happy to partner with these two groups; it’s been a great experience.”

For quicker entry, the event organizers recommend buying tickets online ahead of time on Eventbrite by searching Village of Los Lunas Oktoberfest, but you will still be able to purchase them at the gate, too. Espinoza said both cash and card will be accepted, and there will be plenty of free parking onsite.