Patrons of the regular 'Pinte' enjoy their pint and good vibes at the Jamaica German Society, last Friday. - Michael Sloley /Freelance Photographer IT WILL BE a time of beer, beer and even more beer at 'Oktoberfest 2002', which was launched last Friday at the headquarters of the Jamaican German Society, New Kingston. The launch was incorporated in the society's weekly Pinte (pint), when the members of th group enjoy themselves.
Oktoberfest will continue the 29 year tradition of taking place on the last Friday of October. The festival is a 'Jamaicanised' version of Oktoberfest in Bavaria, Germany. Of course, Oktoberfest in Germany, which reportedly attracts several million visitors each year, lasts for several days. The festival, which originated with the wedding of Prince Ludwig to Princess Therese (October 12, 1810) starts in mid-September and ends in early October.
In terms of entertainment, however, there will be something of a break with tradition. Byron Lee and the Dragonnaires has been a staple at the event since its inception, the organisers revealed. However, patrons have been clamouring that the entertainment be made more authentically German. As a result, this year, what may become a new tradition is being started. For the first time the event will feature a German band, Nobody's Perfekt. There will also be a Jamaican flavour to the entertainment with the local band Mile High.
President of the society, Emil Finlay, pointed out that the society has a very simple target market for the annual event. He pointed out that to come, you need not be German, or be intrigued by Germany, all you need is to be willing to exercise your right to party. "We're targeting who just want to have a good time and participate in the best party for the year in Jamaica," he said. People who also like beer, many types of beer, are also welcome.
As the aim of the festival is for patrons to eat, drink and be merry (the aim of most great festivals), those who want to take their palate on a German adventure are also welcome. While the beer, German and Jamaican, will be free, patrons may purchase food, which will include German cuisine, including several types of sausages (wurst) and sauerkraut among others.
Patrons may also engage in the planned games and the beer drinking contests in different categories.
While the festival is expected to be all about fun, its aim is to raise money to support the classes in German which the society offers. Students of the society may learn either advanced or conversational German. Classes are held throughout the year.
