An official army family and MWR Site

Oktoberfest presented by Kia Autosport

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Oktoberfest 2023!

Fort Moore’s favorite fall tradition returns to Uchee Creek Campground & Marina, Friday, October 20 through Sunday, October 22!  Put on your ‘Dirndl’ or ‘Lederhosen’, pack up the family and the dogs and join us for an authentic Oktoberfest celebrating German culture and traditions. You’ll enjoy three days of family-friendly fun, German food and brews, traditional German music and more! 

Like in Munich, we kick off Oktoberfest with a keg tapping ceremony in the Biergarten on Friday at 6 p.m. EDT. Our very own Maneuver Center of Excellence Band will play the German and American national anthems while Fort Moore’s leadership taps the keg. Once you hear “O’Zapft is” (it’s tapped), the festivities begin.

The Biergarten, sponsored by Headquarter Nissan, is the place to catch authentic German speaking bands performing throughout the weekend.  Sonnenschein Express, an Alpine Oktoberfest show band, entertains the crowds with traditional instruments and songs. The Queen of Oktoberfest, Manuela Horn, gets your Sauerkraut shaking with her high-energy performance!

Our Kinder Wiesn (children’s area) provides free, fun activities for the kids. Inflatables, quad jumps, games, arts & crafts, pumpkin patch, Ferris wheel, teacups, and a merry-go-round will keep the kiddos entertained for hours.  The Queen of Oktoberfest will have special performances for the kids in the Kinder Wiesn! The 2023 Oktoberfest Kinder Wiesn is sponsored by Headquarter Nissan.

Fort Moore’s Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS) will transform the Uchee Creek Activity Center into a German Sportheim (sports club) where you can eat your Bratwurst and enjoy a good German beer while watching college football or NFL games on six large TV’s all weekend long!

We start Saturday with our annual runs – the Dirndl Dash 5k and Lederhosen Leap 10k – on the challenging dirt course through the hills surrounding Uchee Creek Campground.  Pre-register to ensure you get a T-shirt! For those who enjoy a slower pace, our Volksmarch route meanders through our wooded campground area and is accessible until dusk. 

Saturday afternoon is packed with more fun including a Dog Costume Contest and a Dachshund Derby, pontoon boat rides down the Chattahoochee, hayrides, and adult games like keg tossing, stein relay and beer pong. Our annual Stein Hoisting and Mr. & Mrs. Oktoberfest competitions take place in the Biergarten Saturday evening.

On Sunday, in old German tradition, we host our annual Crossroads non-denominational church service at the Oktoberfest. The Wiesn church service is a longstanding tradition at the Munich Oktoberfest. Join us at 11 a.m. EDT in our Biergarten.  If you didn’t catch a ride on one of the pontoon boats or a hayride on Saturday, make sure you do it Sunday.

Sunday afternoon, Kia Autosport of Columbus is giving away a 2023 KIA K5 LXS to one lucky Active Duty Service Member – register today by visiting clicking here!

Admission to the Oktoberfest and parking are free! Oktoberfest is open to the public and dog-friendly!  Dog’s must always be on a leash! Civilians do not need a visitor’s pass for this event if using Alabama Highway 165 to enter Uchee Creek Campground and Marina. 

Shuttle service is available on Saturday on-post from 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. EDT for DoD ID Cardholders ONLY. Pets are not permitted on the shuttle.  For pickup locations and times, click here.

Oktoberfest vendors accept only tokens for the purchase of food, beverages, and souvenirs. Tokens, $1 each, are available to purchase in advance. You can also purchase them at the event.

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All times are Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) – remember, Uchee Creek is on the Alabama side of Fort Moore, your phones may automatically switch to Central Daylight Time (CDT).

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KIA Autosport CAR GIVEAWAY – register today!

Kia Autosport of Columbus, presenting Sponsor of Fort Moore’s 2023 Oktoberfest, is giving away a 2023 Kia K5 LXS.

TOTAL RETAIL VALUE:  $27,035! Register today!

The giveaway will take place at Oktoberfest, Sunday October 22 at 3 p.m. EDT in the Biergarten!  10 finalists will be called to the Biergarten stage with chances on winning the vehicle. Finalist will have 15 minutes to arrive to the stage. The winner will be announced in the Biergarten by Kia Autosport.

Registration is open to Active Duty U.S. service members only (no dependents). MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN! Must provide ID to receive prize. Employees or immediate family members of Kia AutoSport of Columbus or Fort Moore MWR are not eligible.

The winner of the 2023 Kia K5 will be responsible for any federal, state, and local taxes and tag fees that may be imposed.

Deadline to enter is October 13th at 9 am.

Register here!

Questions regarding contest rules should be directed to Kia Autosport of Columbus.

Schedule of Events

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Shuttle Bus Schedule

Shuttle service is available on Saturday on post from 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. EDT to and from Oktoberfest (ID Cardholders ONLY). Pets are not permitted on the shuttle.

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Fort Moore’s Oktoberfest Wiesn

Oktoberfest Wiesn? What is that? Munich’s Oktoberfest – the world’s largest fest - takes place at the Theresienwiese, an open area in Munich. Locals only call it the ‘Wiesn’ – locals don’t go to the Oktoberfest; they head over to the ‘Wiesn’.

We present you Fort Moore’s very own ‘Wiesn’.

Biergarten, sponsored by Headquarter Nissan:  Biergarten translated into English = beer garden. Originating in Bavaria, a Biergarten is an outdoor area in which beer and food are consumed. Our Oktoberfest Biergarten hosts several seating spots, choose an original Bierbank (beer bench) and sit with your friends, or choose one of the many picnic tables. Enjoy traditional German music from Sonnenschein Express and the Queen of Oktoberfest, Manuela Horn, plus our own MCoE Band. All while enjoying authentic German food (or many of the other food items we offer) and brews – it doesn’t get better. We even have an area designated for dancing!

In case we get a couple of rain drops, grab your friends, your plate and your drink and walk over to the Sportheim and wait till the sun comes back out.

Sportheim, hosted by Fort Moore’s BOSS Program:  Sportheim translated into English = sports club. A Sportheim is typically located in every city or smaller town which has any kind of sports club. People come together, watch their local sports team (e.g., soccer) play and enjoy some good lunch, dinner, and beer. The Sportheim is also a place where neighbors come together to chat about what’s going on, all while eating and drinking.

We will turn the Uchee Creek Activity Center into a real German Sportheim – while you eat your Bratwurst and enjoy a good German beer, get your friends together and watch college football and NFL games on six large TV’s all weekend long! It’s all about sports, food, and beer!

Kinder Wiesn, sponsored by Headquarter Nissan:  Every year we have our very own Kinder Wiesn (children’s area) which provides fun activities for the entire day. Inflatables, drum circle, pumpkin patch, quad jump, games, arts & crafts, carnival rides (Ferris wheel, teacups, merry-go-round), and so much more! But we don’t stop there – the Queen of Oktoberfest will have special performances for the kids. Check below the list of the many activities we have for the little ones! We promise, they won’t be bored a single minute! Remember – all of it is free of charge!

Volksmarch – Saturday, October 21, starting 9:30 a.m. EDT:  What is a Volksmarch you ask? A volksmarch is a non-competitive 3.1 mile (5 km) walk. It's not a pledge walk, it's not a run or race, it is a fun activity you do with a club, with your family, with your pet, or all by yourself. Volksmarching has its name from its origins in Europe. And since we bring Germany for 3 days to you, make sure you attend all the activities, especially since the Volksmarch is a free event.

Our annual Volksmarch starts around 9:30 a.m. EDT – but there is no need to rush – you can march all day long, anytime you wish!

Stop by the Information tent on October 21 starting 9:30 a.m. EDT, anytime throughout the day - no matter if you wish to march at 11 a.m. or 3 p.m. – pick up this year’s Volksmarch map, march, take a selfie in between and post to our social media (because we want to know how much you enjoyed yourself), and once you finished your march, come back to the information tent and pick up this year’s Oktoberfest pin!

If you marched every year, you should have a collection by now! If this is your first march – start collecting now!

The Volksmarch is a free event, no registration required, no stress, no hustle, bring the kids, dogs, neighbors, just have fun while marching!

Check out the layout for an overview of the Wiesn! (coming soon)

Hoist a Stein

Raise a glass of your favorite German brew … and hold it there just as long as you can. The event is open to the public and there is no entry fee, but participants must be at least 21 years old. MWR employees and their immediate family members are not eligible to participate. Win this year’s trophy!

Registration is not required, just be there! The first 20 women and men will compete; we meet up 15 minutes before each competition at the entrance to the Biergarten.

Women compete on Saturday, October 21, at 5:30 p.m. and the men's competition starts at 8:10 p.m.!

Rules:

  1. Participants must be 21 or older and must present ID
  2. The 1L Hofbrauhaus Freising stein itself weighs approximately 3.5lbs.
  3. Stein will be filled to 1L lip with water.
  4. Stein must be gripped by the handle.
  5. Thumb may not go on top of the stein handle; it must rest on the other fingers.
  6. Pinkie finger may be held outside of the handle.
  7. Arching of the back is allowable, however excessive leaning is unacceptable.
  8. The stein must be gripped such that the front of the stein faces away from the competitor (the stein can't be gripped sideways).
  9. Stein must be held out in front of the competitor, not out to the side.
  10. The arm holding the stein must remain close to parallel with the floor and should be extended straight with very little bending at the elbow.
  11. The off hand should remain at the competitor's side and should not be used to support the body.
  12. An infraction of any rule will result in a strike. After two strikes, the third infraction leads to elimination of the competitor.
  13. If any amount of water spills or drips off of the stein, the competitor is eliminated, regardless of the number of previously assigned strikes. During outdoor competitions or humid conditions, judges will differentiate between dripping resulting from condensation and dripping resulting from beer spillage.
  14. Competitors should not contact any structures, objects, or people during the competition.
  15. Competitors must stand within their personal area and should not move more than is necessary to adjust ensuring proper form during the competition.
  16. Amateurs only. National level competitors are not eligible to participate.

And remember, Own Your Limits while enjoying Oktoberfest and some great German beer, and most importantly, have fun but do the right thing!! Don't drink and drive, call a cab: +1 (706) 322-1616. Serve honorably. Drink responsibly.

Lederhosen Leap 10K, Dirndl Dash 5K & Volksmarch
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Saturday, October 21, starts at 9 a.m. with the annual Oktoberfest Lederhosen Leap 10K followed by the Dirndl Dash 5K at 9:15 a.m. The 10K dirt route winds deep into the wooded hills around Uchee Creek Campground and is NOT stroller friendly.  The Dirndl Dash 5K is a bit more accommodating for strollers and those not able to run on a rough trail.  Each race is limited to the first 300 registered and each runner will receive a finisher medal.  We encourage runners to come dressed in their favorite German attire!

Click here for more information and how to register! 

Volksmarch Map

Biergarten Entertainment

Sonnenschein Express: An Alpine/Oktoberfest show band showcasing traditional folk songs and instruments found in the Alpine Region. Their performances include the sounds of the ‘Steirische Harmonika’ (button accordion), the alphorns, ringing cowbells, singing carpenters saw, shoe slapping, wooden laughter and more. In addition, crowd participation is always a big part of the performance!

The Maneuver Center of Excellence (MCoE) Band: Fort Moore’s own award-winning band will perform.

The Queen of Oktoberfest, Manuela Horn: She is back! The Queen of Oktoberfest won all hearts during previous Oktoberfests, we are very lucky to have her perform at our Oktoberfest. Manuela Horn, also known as the Austrian Amazon, is a yodeling, dancing, acting comedic force of nature.

Check out last year’s pictures

Games & Activities
  • Dog costume contest & Dachshund Derby (Dogs MUST be on a leash at all times!

  • Pontoon Boat Rides (last pontoon ride is at 4:30 p.m.)

  • Hayrides

  • Rides (Ferris Wheel/Teacups/Merry-Go-Round)

  • Keg Tossing Contest

  • Stein Hoisting (21+)

  • Mr. & Mrs. Oktoberfest

  • Beer Pong, Corn Hole, Keg Rolling, Keg Tossing, Stein Relay and more!

  • It is back – the Photobus will be here – be sure to snap your 2023 Oktoberfest pictures and take home some memories!

Free Kids Activities

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Canine Competitions
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We host canine competitions, including the Dachshund Derby and our famous dog costume contest.  Sign-up for these free events on Saturday at the registration table located in front of the Biergarten from 11 a.m. - noon.  The dog costume contest will be held at noon and the Dachshund Derby will start at 4 p.m.

(Dogs must be on a leash at all times!)

What's on the Menu?

Traditional authentic German food! Have a Schnitzel, Bratwurst, Kraut, Pretzel, and German potato salad (Kartoffelsalat)!

And, of course, German beer! Hofbrauhaus Freising is Fort Moore’s Oktoberfest beer!

Hofbrauhaus Freising, a world class Bavarian brewery, is among the world’s oldest breweries. Hofbrauhaus Freising beers are superbly brewed according to Bavarian Purity Laws, using only premium ingredients (no preservatives) from the surrounding Alps and Hallertau regions. Hofbrauhaus Freising is one of only a select few breweries to be designated as a “Slow Brewer”, which guarantees a quality brewing process that ensures maximum flavor and freshness. Try our Festbier, Hefeweizen or Dunkel! You won’t regret it! PROST! *

We also offer a variety of other foods, such as chicken fingers, fries, corn dogs, hamburgers, BBQ, turkey legs and more!

A variety of dessert options including cookies, German cakes, crepes, funnel cakes, kettle corn, candy apples, Italian ice and more!

And remember, Own Your Limits while enjoying Oktoberfest and some great German beer, and most importantly, have fun but do the right thing!! Don't drink and drive, call a cab: +1 (706) 322-1616. Serve honorably. Drink responsibly.

Why do I need tokens? I thought this was a free event?

Tokens are needed to pay for all food and beverages. Admission is free, as well as the entertainment, children’s activities, and parking.

MWR uses tokens at our large events to help speed up the process of ordering and paying for food and beverages. The vendors appreciate the ease of not having to return change.

BUT don’t wait in line! Buy your tokens ahead of time!

See below dates and times of MWR locations selling tokens ahead of Oktoberfest:

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MWR Facility Closures in support of Fort Moore’s Oktoberfest 2023

Fort Moore’s annual Oktoberfest is a three-day event; to ensure you can enjoy every minute of it, almost all MWR employees are working this event. Unfortunately, this also means, we need to close some of our facilities during that time.

Grab a post-it and write it down, put it on your fridge so you won’t forget it!

The following facilities will be closed on:

  1. Recreational Shooting Complex:  (Closed Friday, October 20 – Sunday, October 22)
  2. Mall Bowling Center:  (Closed Friday, October 20 – Sunday, October 22)
  3. Bowling & Entertainment Center:  (Closed Friday, October 20 – Sunday, October 22)
  4. Infantry Bar (IBar):  (Closed Friday, October 20 – Sunday, October 22)
  5. Main Post Recreation Center:  (Closed Friday, October 20 – Sunday, October 22)
  6. Milton E. Long Library:  (Closed Saturday, October 21 + Sunday, October 22)
  7. Java Café on Main Post:  (Closed Thursday, October 19, 3 p.m.  – Sunday, October 22)
  8. Java Café on Harmony Church:  (Closed Friday, October 20 – Sunday, October 22)
  9. Auto Skills Center:  
    1. Bay Rental: Closed Friday, October 20 – Sunday, October 22
    2. We Do It: Closed Saturday, October 21 - Sunday, October 22

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get there?  Use our free smart phone app, Digital Garrison, for directions. Search for Uchee Creek Campground and Marina.

You do not have to enter Fort Moore or request a visitors pass for this event. Uchee Creek is easily accessed from Alabama HWY 165. We will offer a free shuttle service Saturday to and from select on-post locations (ID Cardholders only) and guests must show an ID to ride the shuttle.  No pets allowed on the shuttle! Check above for the Bus Schedule!

Can we bring coolers/refreshments?  No outside food and beverages are permitted at this event.

What kind of food do you serve?  You name it: Schnitzel, Bratwurst, Currywurst, Kraut, pretzels and potato salad, chicken, fries, corn dogs, hamburgers, BBQ, turkey legs and much more! Desserts include cookies, cakes, and German cakes, crepes, funnel cakes, kettle corn, candy apples, Italian ice and more. Wash it all down with your favorite brew or a soda.

Is the event handicap friendly?  This event is physically accessible to individuals with disabilities. Make requests for sign language interpretation or other accommodations to 706-545-4499.

Why do I need tokens? Do I need money?  Oktoberfest vendors only accept tokens for purchases.  Avoid waiting in line and pre-purchase your tokens early, see above.

When you say kids’ activities are free, do you mean they’re free?  Actually, yes. They’ll enjoy those inflatable bounce houses, slides/obstacle courses a quad jump, carnival rides, hayrides and the pumpkin patch, arts and crafts and games, and it won’t cost you a dime.

And for the big kids?  Adults will enjoy competitions like the annual Dachshund Derby, keg tossing and the stein hoisting contest, and many more. You’ll also enjoy free pontoon boat rides, rides, entertainment in the Biergarten, and lots of dancing. At some point, you might do the chicken dance.

What if it rains?  It’s on. Grab a beer and head into the Sportheim.

What items are prohibited?  Guns, knives, or weapons of any kind. Outside food or beverages (especially alcohol). Dogs must be leashed at all times. No unaccompanied minors.

Where can I learn more?  You can't. You are already well-armed with all that really matters. You could Google it and prove us wrong, but nothing good could come of that.

Vendor Opportunities

Oktoberfest brings more than 15,000 people to Uchee Creek Campground & Marina  over a three-day period. We welcome a variety of vendors to this event, including those who sell foods of all kinds, beverages and souvenirs. For information on vending opportunity at MWR events, call +1 (706) 545-8302 or +1 (706) 527-8349.

Sponsorship and Advertising Opportunities

Oktoberfest brings more than 31,000 people to Uchee Creek Campground & Marina over a three-day period. This is a great opportunity to engage with the on-post community and our neighbors from around the Chattahoochee Valley. For information on sponsorship, call +1 (706) 545-4499.

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