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The Yankee Express

Douglas Oktoberfest is back

Ken Warchol greets some of the early arrivals who showed up for a walking tour of the Whitinsville historic district, on July 24.

October 2, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Douglas Oktoberfest Committee will once again be closing down Main St. Douglas and hosting one of the largest events in the Blackstone Valley. This year will not only celebrate the return of Oktoberfest, but the 275th birthday of Douglas as well.
  The committee will be bringing back favorites such as the Weiner Dog and small dog race, train rides, bouncy rides, car show, and more. The Beer Garden will once again feature ultra-local Purgatory Brewing with limited edition craft beers. 
Among the new features for Oktoberfest this year will be the tricycle races held in the front lot of the Webster First Credit Union. The tricycle racers will have to weave their way through tight turns to beat the clock and their friends. An ice cream truck and even an authentic soda jerk stand will ensure another incredible event for all ages. 
They are also excited to bring back the Rib Cook-Off. In collaboration with the Olive Branch Lodge, Douglas Oktoberfest will be hosting a rib cook-off competition with a grand prize of $500 going to best in show. This is going to be an old school smokefest to see who will have bragging rights for the best ribs in the Valley. 
  The event is going to wrap up with a celebration of Douglas’ 275th birthday, complete with a custom artisan cake from Millbury based Cake Shop Café. And don’t miss a special dance celebration performed by the talented team from Dance Sensations. 
The committee is still booking entertainment for the event. If you are a band, musician, comedian, artist, magician or have an act that defies categorization, and would like to share your talents with town, let them know.
Vendors and Rib-Off contestants can sign up using the forms on the website: www.douglasoktoberfest.com  
Interested volunteers and entertainment can contact them through their Facebook page www.facebook.com/douglasoktoberfest or by email at [email protected]