Doxie races and more fun for all ages at this weekend’s Lake Geneva Oktoberfest

Part of Lake Geneva’s Oktoberfest this weekend might warrant calling the event Dogtoberfest.

Dachshund races are expected to be a highlight during the annual celebration, which also includes numerous children’s activities, a beer garden, stein-raising contests, live music and more at Flat Iron Park.

“I think it’s going to be all about the dogs,” said Kristi Tarantino, event director for Streets of Lake Geneva, which organizes Oktoberfest.

At the time of this writing, 10 dachshunds are expected. Tarantino said there could be more due to the number of people who have contacted her about participating.

How many remain to be seen on Saturday and Sunday, October 8 and 9, during the actual races.

Having dachshunds, or “doxies,” sprint around the park was an Oktoberfest activity that debuted last year.

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“I had this idea last year because it’s kind of like Oktoberfest,” Tarantino said. “I witnessed a race at a different Oktoberfest. It was the most beautiful 10 seconds I’ve ever seen.”

With their elongated bodies and short legs, dachshunds have a way of running that Tarantino finds adorable.

“Their bodies are so long that when they run, they just curl their bodies and shoot (forward). The way they run is hysterical,” he said.

Aside from more doxies at Oktoberfest, the most notable change will probably be that there is now a $5 entry fee for adults. Children can enter for free.

Tarantino said it’s due to increased costs and added security to increase safety.

“Event costs have increased over the years and in order to produce the same high quality event we had to charge a very small entry fee,” he said.

But there’s a lot to enjoy for a small fee. Tarantino gave a list of 10 reasons to go to Oktoberfest this weekend.

Grand Geneva Doxie Dash Race:October 8 and 9, 4 p.m.— Free with admission.

Pony rides and bounces: October 8 and 9: There will be three bounce houses at Flat Iron Park.

Children’s entertainment area: Various entertainment on both days of the event, including magic tricks, balloon animals, comedy and interactive activities.

Face Painter: Free with admission.

Food: Hot Dogs, Pizzas, Brats, Smashed Hamburgers, Donuts, Corn and more.

Live music: Featuring the “best of German bands,” said Tarantino. A “Friday Night Pre Party” is Oct. 7 with music by Big Al Wetzel at Topsy Turvy Brewery, 727 Geneva St., 5-9 p.m. Oct. 8 — Ed Wagner’s Lustige Blaskapelle, 12:30- 3 p.m.; and Steve Meisner Band, 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 9: Badger High School Jazz Band plays 12:30 to 3 p.m.; and the Phenix band is on from 3 to 5 p.m

Dunn Lumber Stein Lifting Competitions: October 8 and 9, 2 p.m. — It’s a competition of strength, said Tarantino. The winner is the person who can hold a full glass the longest without spilling it. Men’s and women’s division, with a winner each day in each division. Register at the box office. Contest entry fee: $20.

Organ Shredder: A musician will play an authentic street organ during the event.

Craft Fair: Over 20 vendors selling artisan goods both days of Oktoberfest.

Beer: Topsy Turvy Brewery will offer several craft beers, including Lake Geneva Oktoberfest, Hugh Hefeweizer, Beach Blonde, Stellar Nova Original and Lotus Hazy IPA, in addition to Miller Lite.

Flat Iron Park is located at 201 Wrigley Drive, Lake Geneva.

For more Oktoberfest details, go to streetsoflakegeneva.com.

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