Today@Sam Article

Say ‘Hallo’ To Oktoberfest

Oct. 5, 2017
SHSU Media Contact: Lane Fortenberry

Story by Amanda Horn

The Bearkat community will celebrate rich German culture with members of Sam Houston State University’s German Program and the German Conversation and Culture Club as they kick off their second annual Oktoberfest on Friday, Oct. 13 from 5-8 p.m., at The Wynne Home Arts Center.Oktoberfest 480

“Oktoberfest generally brings SHSU students, faculty and staff together centered around food, drinks and games to celebrate some local flare,” said Ervin Malakaj, assistant professor of German and club advisor.  

The event is designed to help the community understand German history and its culture, according to Sara Gollogly, the president of German Conversation and Culture Club.

“What our club is seeking to do with this event is broaden people’s minds and to also engage the community in a fun and welcoming way,” Gollogly said.

All types of German food will be provided, as well as family friendly games, dancing, face painting, a scavenger hunt, a cake walk, soccer, corn hole, and stein races.

“We will also have a high school Bavarian dance troop that will perform and teach some of the guests their dance moves,” Gollogly said.

Last year Oktoberfest was a big hit and the German Conversation and Culture Club hopes for the same turn out, according to Malakaj.

“Our success with last year’s event made me realize that this is one great way for people in the program to get great experience by putting on a community festival and for everyone to collaborate with one another,” Malakaj said.

German-inspired costumes are welcomed at this event; however, it is not required. People are encouraged to wear whatever they want, according to Malakaj.

The event is open to the public for an admittance fee of $1.

For more information about this event, contact Ervin Malakaj at emalakaj@shsu.edu or go to the German Conversation and Culture Clubs Facebook page @SHSUGerman.

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