Oktoberfest coming to Moorpark this weekend

Newbury Park Rotary Club and Farmers Insurance will present the 20th annual Oktoberfest on Sat. and Sun., Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 at Underwood Family Farms, situated between Thousand Oaks and Moorpark at 3370 Sunset Valley Road in 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." 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 contests, including the best Bavarian costume (lederhosen and dirndls), a stein-holding contest and beerdrinking contest. Prizes will be awarded to winners.

Family activities at Underwood Farms will include a petting zoo, a giant slingshot, pick-yourown pumpkins and free hay rides.

Authentic German food, including bratwurst and sauerkraut will be featured, including a full food court that will satisfy a variety of tastes. Oktoberfest hours will be 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The cost is $7.50 for adults, kids 2 and under are free. Parking is free. Since its inception, Oktoberfest has raised more than $230,000 for local charities. For more information, visit the Rotary website at www.nprotary.org.