BOONSBORO, Md. — The annual Augustoberfest is set to take place on Aug. 17 and 18 at 7313 Sharpsburg Pike. This marks the third year that the festival has been held in its new location, continuing its tradition of celebrating the area’s rich German heritage while supporting local educational initiatives.
Organized by the Augustoberfest Charitable Foundation, the festival aims to raise scholarship funds for students participating in the Hagerstown-Wesel Sister City foreign exchange program. Additionally, it supports foundational endowments for various nonprofits within Washington County.
The Foundation’s board includes local business leaders who volunteer their time to ensure the event’s success. Augustoberfest is recognized as one of the most authentic German festivals in the region, offering a family-friendly atmosphere with a free kids’ area filled with activities. The festival promises a wide range of traditional Oktoberfest festivities, including:
- Food Vendors: Attendees can indulge in a variety of German cuisine.
- Kinderwunderland: A dedicated area for children featuring crafts, storytelling, a magic show, dancing and bounce houses.
- Live Music: Multiple stages will host performances throughout the event.
- Games and Marketplace: Guests can enjoy various games and shop from local vendors.
- Beer Hall: A space to enjoy traditional German beers.
The festival not only celebrates Hagerstown’s German roots but also commemorates the enduring friendship between Hagerstown and its sister city, Wesel, Germany. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the sister city relationship, which began after World War II when Wesel, having suffered significant destruction during the conflict, reached out to Hagerstown in a gesture of reconciliation.
