When in October, do as the German’s do

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Rose Richeson
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  The 39th Services Squadron, along with 12 private organizations, will host Incirlik's annual Octoberfest Saturday in recognition of the age-old German tradition celebrated worldwide. 

What better way to kick off the weekend and the month of October than with a day of family, fun and great tasting beverages? 

If you aren't at Leisure Time Park between 3 and 8 p.m. then you're missing out.
No entrance fee is required, but have club cards handy for a better chance of winning one of many door prizes throughout the day. Non members will receive one ticket and club members receive two tickets. Non members have another option to become members at Octoberfest and get three tickets; therefore being three times more likely of going home with a prize. Club members also receive benefits on base such as discounts at events and when eating at certain on base venues. 

The festival caters to fun-loving base members of all ages. A Kids' Zone, live music by Armed Forces Entertainment, viewing of the 2006 Car Show and bed races are provided as the main attractions along with food and refreshments by Team Incirlik's private organizations. 

Amanda Nutter from Services Marketing and Publicity recommends people "load up on food and hang out with your friends if you're not working this year." She said the festival provides base members with something enjoyable to do on the weekend if not traveling out of town. 

Music will be heard throughout Saturday as the opener for Tommy Z, known simply as "Z" by his friends, he is a local Incirlik favorite most will recognize from previous events. Mr. Z is one of Western New York's most accomplished blues guitarists and vocalists and has played more than 100 shows per year for the past 15 years. He often travels far distances playing for U.S. troops on behalf of Armed Forces Entertainment/United Service Organizations. 

The Car Show will get motors running. The Auto Hobby Shop is sponsoring the second annual show, open to proud car owners, during Saturday's festivities. In 2005 the Car Show received more than 30 entries and this year they are expecting about the same. Prizes are awarded to participants and people can register by calling the Auto Hobby Shop at 676-6655. 

Those who show up with five friends can even compete in the annual bed races, easily confused with the five-person litter carry. No equipment is needed and people can sign up at the park. 

Octoberfest is a community event offered to bring families and neighbors together on the weekend. 

"Have fun for all," Billy Anderson, Community Activities Center director, said, "but please be a good Wingman and make smart decisions when joining in on the fun."
Mr. Anderson also said don't be shy to come sporting lederhosen, the traditional German attire.