2023 Lovettsville Oktoberfest Program

The Washington Sängerbund proudly supports the Lovettsville Oktoberfest

September 23, 2023 • Lovettsville, Virginia

Visit us at our location beside the beer stand and savor authentic German food, desserts and snacks while you enjoy the programs of folk dancing and German music presented on the main tent’s stage.

Try our potato salad, sauerkraut, freshly grilled German sausages, Bavarian-style pretzels, apfelstrudel smothered in whipped cream and wash it down with a cold beer from the nearby beer stand or quench your thirst with one of our wide selection of soft drinks or water.

Then, visit the many street vendors and enjoy the festive atmosphere during this Saturday affair.

Washington Sängerbund

Rehearsals: Mondays, 7 pm, 2434 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Washington, D.C.

Hot-line: 202-310-4691 • www.saengerbund.org

The History of Lovettsville’s Oktoberfest

CELEBRATION OF A HERITAGE

The Lovettsville Oktoberfest

“Ein Prosit!, ein Prosit der Gemütlichkeit!”. It’s Oktoberfest in Lovettsville again, a community festival for the whole family, a bit of Germany and a lot of Virginia, a tradition nearing a half century with roots from ancient times.

“Oktoberfest” conjures up the famous Munich Oktoberfest which attracts millions every year, an extravaganza that began in October 1810 as a celebration of the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig (later King Ludwig I) of Bavaria to Princess Therese von SachsenHildenburghausen. Lovettsville’s connection to Bavaria, Munich or Ludwig might seem contrived. The first settlers of the “German Settlement” came from the region along the upper Rhine valley not Upper Bavaria and settled here as early as the 1720s, long before the Oktoberfest in Munich.

The roots of the Lovettsville Oktoberfest hearken back to an almost forgotten tradition, Erntedank or Harvest Thanks, which takes place on or around Michaelistag or Michaelmas (29th of September, the Feast of the Archangel St. Michael and All Angels in the liturgical calendar). Typically the German, Austrian or Swiss harvest thanksgiving celebrations (Erntedankfest) country observances with church services, parades, music, dancing, food, and fairs. The Oktoberfest tradition that started in Munich as a public wedding celebration coincided and likely took advantage of the traditional Erntedank festivities. Erntedank was not exclusively a beer fest. In regions along the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers, Erntedank also coincides with the Wine harvest.

The original German heritage churches of the German Settlement, St. James United Church of Christ (formerly known as the German Reformed Church) and New Jerusalem Lutheran Church still observe the tradition of thanks and service at this time of year.

Today’s Lovettsville Oktoberfest is a revival of the old German village Fest tradition and grew out of planning for the National Bicentennial celebration starting in July 1974.

On that occasion projects included gathering and publishing the stories and events that are the history of the German Settlement, renovating the derelict old Potterfield butcher shop as a library and museum, and staging patriotic events, parades, and entertainment.

Jean S. Mohler, then chairperson of the Bicentennial Committee, records that “since

The History of Lovettsville’s Oktoberfest

Lovettsville was settled by Germans, it would enrich our celebrations if we used this heritage in making our events as Germanic as possible including German food, music and customs” …” In planning an activity for the Fall, the committee remembered the Germanic celebration of Oktoberfest. We voted to have our “Fest“in September. . . We decided to invite competent Lovettsville artisans and craftspeople. . .German foods, dress and music were to carry out the Oktoberfest theme and, in addition the Lovettsville Lions Club offered to provide a barbecue, complete with pigs in roasting pits.”

The Bicentennial celebrations of 1976 and Lovettsville’s first attempt at staging an Oktoberfest were a resounding success. Many older citizens who were there and who participated remember and speak of it still. The Lovettsville Historical Society and Museum is still operating in the renovated Potterfield butcher shop and the history, Lovettsville, The German Settlement. has been published and is in its third printing.

The 1983 Tricentennial of the first organized migration of German immigrants to the British colonies in America reinvigorated the community to tap its German heritage and revive the Oktoberfest.

Grace Hummer the wife of Mayor Richard Hummer and a member of the Town Council herself, had the vision and took the initiative to plan and execute a festival that would follow through on Proclamations by President Reagan and Governor Robb which officially recognized the Tricentennial and called upon all citizens to observe it in appropriate ceremonies and festivities. She and her volunteers pulled together “Celebration of a Heritage”, a seminal event that has become the template of Lovettsville’s Oktoberfest tradition and was the only German-American festival in Virginia at the time. Mrs. Hummer accomplished this through in-kind donations, generous sponsors, enthusiasm, sweat equity, and no public funding. Entertainment for the festival featured a German band concert at the elementary school auditorium, waltz and polka contests, the U.S. Navy Band, “Country Current”, Dale Wise (a strolling accordion player) a Sunday hymn sing, and local crafters and artists. The souvenir program booklet was designed by artist Paul M. Breeden, a calligrapher for the White House and illustrator for National Geographic magazine and other publications, a souvenir still much sought after and treasured. The 1983 Tricentennial Oktoberfest was the prelude, the pilot of what the Lovettsville community has achieved today.

Throughout the 1990s Lovettsville’s Oktoberfest was a modest affair due to budget constraints. It lapsed to resemble a country craft fair, rummage sale and bake sale rolled into one. About the only Germanness came with the whiff of Sauerkraut wafting from the German Supper at the Community Center. The Fest featured

Artwork by Walt Barth

The History of Lovettsville’s Oktoberfest

the pancake breakfast at the Lovettsville Elementary School, the Volksmarsch (a 10-kilometer hike that looped around the town), crafters selling their creations, a flea market, grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, an exhibition of local artists, the library book sale and openhouse tours of the local churches and masonic lodge. A local band played “rockabilly” on a front porch. The historical society played tape cassettes of traditional Oktoberfest music at the museum. Mayor Elaine Walker commented that the organizers wanted to hire a German band, but the cost was too much. She hoped the Oktoberfest would always be free. The organizers were operating within a budget of $1000.

By 1999 things began to change. New ideas for entertainment, food and scope came with new committee members and an ever-enthusiastic Mayor Walker and an energized town council. Jim Hill, a retired Army Chief Sergeant Major and his wife Christine, living near Taylorstown and members of New Jerusalem Lutheran Church, joined the Oktoberfest planning committee. The couple became a driving force to make the Fest authentically German. Christine, German by birth, had wondered about the lack of German flavor in a town known as the German Settlement. The couple recruited friends from the German-American community throughout the Baltimore and Washington metro area to be part of the Lovettsville üFest. They contacted local German bands at Blobb’s Park in Jessup, Maryland, and organized food and refreshments that featured Knackwurst, Bratwurst, Thüringerwurst, Kartoffelsalat, crispy Semmelbrötchen, Sauerkraut and cakes. They advertised through the German Radio Club which broadcast out of Baltimore and engaged The Continentals Band to play German tunes in the main tent under the walnut tree behind the town office (a 40x60 foot affair set up with a

10x20 foot dance floor).

The German community responded. They came, the old and not so old couples from Baltimore and Washington with their thick accents, dressed in Bavarian Tracht and Dirndl dresses and dancing to the strains and rhythms of polkas, waltzes and ländler that had not been seen or heard in the old German Settlement for more than a century.

The Washington Sängerbund is one of the oldest, still active German-American choral society in the United States, founded in 1851. It is a not-for-profit incorporated cultural society. About 50 active singers make up the mixed chorus. The Sängerbund has performed at state visits at the White House, at official dedications, and in concert at the German, Austrian and Swiss embassies. Funding is raised through donations, concert ticket sales and regional events such as the Lovettsville Oktoberfest.

In 2002 the Oktoberfest Committee learned through Jim Hill’s contacts in the GermanAmerican community that the Washington

Artwork by Walt Barth

The History of Lovettsville’s Oktoberfest

of the Washington Sängerbund, Herbert and Carol Traxler who were impresarios of the Alpine Dancers, also became part of our Fest tradition. The Alpine Dancers performed the beautiful and intricate folk dances of Germany, Austria and Switzerland. They turned spectators into participants, bringing young and old on to the dance floor as part of the main tent entertainment. We were also able to afford and entice local and contemporary bands to expand our repertoire. Oktoberfest enthusiasm gripped our local restauranteurs as well, who expanded their operations to the out of doors and included their own entertainers and live music. Oktoberfest has become a communitybuilding catalyst that showcases our town, its environment, our rich history and traditions and its people.

Sängerbund was vacating their facilities in Upper Marleboro, Maryland, where they had hosted their own Oktoberfest for many years. We contacted the Sängerbund and described our intentions of expanding and making the Oktoberfest more authentic in Lovettsville. The result was an immediate and generous offer to help. Within weeks of the first meeting the Sängerbund members had loaded and unloaded three Penske rental truckloads with much of their investment in kitchen equipment, furniture, sound equipment and decorations, which involved six trips between Upper Marleboro and Lovettsville.

For the 2003 Oktoberfest and our then $3000$4000 budget, the Sängerbund’s windfall generosity enabled us to afford a large tent with dance floor and stage and to have a large seating capacity under canvas as well as immediately outside the tent. We were able to finally engage the Alte Kameraden band of Fairfax, undoubtedly the best and most authentic German band this side of the Atlantic, which has become a Lovettsville Oktoberfest tradition. Members

Lovettsville’s Oktoberfest has expanded every year to become one of the most authentic and family-oriented events in the region, “The Best of Loudoun”. From an expected 1000 visitors when we began, we now expect over 10,000. We offer entertainment and activities for all ages. Our Fest combines a little bit of Germany and a lot of country Virginia. Planned for months in advance and set up by volunteers, young and old, in a week, the Lovettsville Oktoberfest is true to its heritage, true to hardworking people living in a good and pleasant land. If you are visiting, welcome to be with us. If you live here or have just moved here, welcome, join and become part of German Settlement heritage. In the last weekend of September, you can be a little German or Swiss or Austrian and have quality time with your family and friends and enjoy the Gemütlichkeit of the old German Settlement in the Loudoun Valley at the Short Hill.

Michael Zapf Lovettsville, Virginia

Artwork by Walt Barth

Schedule of Events

Friday, September 22

Times are approximate and subject to change

Happy Hour on the Green (11 Spring Farm Dr.)

We invite you to kick off the 28th Annual Lovettsville Oktoberfest with happy hour on the Green with a huge assortment of authentic German and other cuisine from Lovettsville and beyond, including our long-time partner, the Washington Saengerbund, as the Lovettsville Lions Club will be providing your beverages for the entire Fest!

5:00pm - 11:00pm: Food and Beer on the Town Green

6:00pm - 10:45pm: Beer Taps Open

The Crowning of Royalty @ Wiener Dog Stadium

For the first time, you can make your way to Wiener Dog Stadium on the Squircle to cheer on your favorites as we crown the Oktoberfest King and Queen! We thank and Endhardt Vineyards for sponsoring the Royal Competition!

6:00pm: Oktoberfest Royalty Competition

Rock-toberFest on the Green

Head back to the Green for a night of rock with Lovettsville’s favorite, Ghost Pepper. Stick around as we attempt to break the world record as the crowd belts out Bohemian Rhapsody…will this be our year!? We thank Stillwater Human Capital for sponsoring the Biergarten tent, Bank of Clarke/Bank of Clarke Foundation for sponsoring the Main Stage and Cannabreeze Hemp Farm for sponsoring the VIP tent!

7:30pm: Ceremonial Keg Tapping

8:00pm - 11:00pm: Live Music: Ghost Pepper!!

9:30pm: Bohemian Rhapsody Sing-A-Long

Saturday, September 23

Starting Off Right

Start your day with a jaunt through the Lovettsville Community Park during the Volksmarsch to get up your appetite for a hearty pancake breakfast at Lovettsville Elementary School to support the Lovettsville Elementary PTO and a day full of German-inspired cuisine! We thank Fitness Image Results for their partnership and running the Volksmarsch and the Lovettsville PTO for their partnership and running the pancake breakfast!

7:30am – 9:30am: Volksmarsch 5K & 10K walk/run/hike @ Lovettsville Community Park

8:30am – 10:30am: Lovettsville Elementary PTO Pancake Breakfast @ Lovettsville Elementary

Schedule of Events

Saturday, September 23, cont.

Times are approximate and subject to change

Vendor Village @ 6 Pennsylvania Avenue

This year’s Fest marks the return of our extensive arts and craft vendors, now in one central location…come peruse our 1/2 mile of art, crafts, vendors and food trucks at Vendor Village!

10:00am: Opening Ceremony @ Entrance to Vendor Village

10:00am - 5:00pm: Vendor Village Open

Biergarten on the Green @ Walker Pavilion

Come early as the ceremonial keg is delivered via a Fassmarsch (or “Keg Walk”) and tapped to kick off Oktoberfest Saturday. Eat, drink and be merry in our 10,000+ square foot German-style biergarten tent while you take in the sights and sounds of Oktoberfest! We thank Lost Rhino and Walk4Mountains for sponsoring the ceremonial keg tapping both Friday night and Saturday!

11:00am - 10:45pm: Beer Taps Open

10:30am: Oktoberfest Fassmarsch @ Red Bud Lane to the Biergarten on the Green

11:00am: Opening Ceremony & Ceremonial Keg Tapping

11:30am: Recognition of Lovettsville’s Distinguished Citizens

Noon - 3:00pm: Live Music: Alte Kumpel Band

Biergarten On Penn @ 6 Pennsylvania Ave

Come listen and dance with the world renown, authentic Bavarian performers!

11:00am - 5:30pm: Beer Taps Open

12:30pm - 5:30pm: Alte Kameraden: Traditional Bavarian Music

12:30pm - 5:30pm: Washingtonia Dancers: Traditional Bavarian Dance Exhibition & Instruction

Kinderfest on Oktoberfest Way

Kinderfest is part of the Lovettsville Oktoberfest celebration. Situated along Oktoberfest Way, this year’s Kinderfest will feature entertainment and a host of free activities for children, including sports games, pony rides, face painting and inflatables!

10:30am: Opening Ceremony: King & Queen Lead Chicken Dance

11:00am-5pm: Oktoberfest/Kid-Friendly Music & Games by Bach to Rock

Noon – 4pm: Make Your Own Crowns with Lovettsville Elementary PTO

Schedule of Events

Saturday, September 23, cont.

Times are approximate and subject to change

Wiener Dog Stadium on the Squircle

The traditional Oktoberfest games and contests that you have grown to love at the Lovettsville Oktoberfest will be centralized on the Squircle this year! Also enjoy food and beer while you watch! We thank One Family Brewing/One Family Gives for sponsoring the Wiener Dog Races, Lion’s Den Fitness for sponsoring the Stein Hoisting competitions and Wild’s Edge Fitness for sponsoring the Stein Hauling competition!

1:00pm: Wiener Dog Races: Alpine Division

1:45pm: Stein Hoisting Competitions

2:30pm: Wiener Dog Races: Bavarian Division

3:15pm: Stein Hauling Competition

4:00pm: Wiener Dog Championship “Race for the Kaiser Cup” Awards Presentation for all contests will immediately follow the Championship Races

AchtzigerFest on the Green

Get ready to rock with the Poöl Boys and to the eighties with the Reflex! We thank Bakerture Photography for sponsoring the Poöl Boys!

4:00pm - 7:00pm: Live Music: Poöl Boys

8:00pm - 11:00pm: Live Music: The Reflex

Around the Fest

Be sure to travel through town to visit our great restaurants and businesses serving up German and local fare, beverages and crafts, along with great live music! We thank Geary Higgins for Delegate and Caleb Kershner for Catoctin Supervisor for sponsoring shuttle bus transportation around the Fest!

10:00am - 11:00pm: Visit local business for Live Music, great food and beverages, and crafts

Noon - 11:00pm: Oktoberfest hosted by Lovettsville Game Protective Association

* Velocity Wings is accepting festival beer tickets for Booby Beer made by Lost Rhino to benefit local non-profit Walk4Mountains. All other local businesses will not be accepting festival beer tickets.

Local Happenings from Lovettsville Restaurants & Shops

Willow’s Vintage Charm

Willow’s Vintage Charm has EVERYTHING you need for Oktoberfest! Stop by for your Oktoberfest souvenirs and find surprises throughout! From vintage & authentic beer steins to fedoras & bottle openers. With over 30 local artists & craftsmen, we offer both new & old, one-of-a-kind items, artwork, & handmade treasures, including fine antiques & home decor!

1836 Kitchen and Tap Room

1836 Kitchen and Tap Room offers indoor and outdoor seating. We are a community-centered establishment that sources locally when available. The Taproom is a great place to grab a drink, enjoy some great food, and have a fun conversation! We are a Peanut/tree nut free restaurant and do our best to source products not manufactured in these facilities. During the fest, we will be serving German beer under the tent: Ayinger Oktoberfest, Fruh Kölsch, Schneider Aventinus, Schofferhoffer Grapefruit, Tucher Helles Hefeweizen, Tucher Festbier, Weihenstephaner Kristall Weissbier, and Eggenberg Hopfenkonig Pils. One Family Brewery beer on the patio. Live music Saturday: Chris Bowen 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM, Chris Timbers Band 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM, and SHAG 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Andy’s

Andy’s serves Italian and Mediterranean fare including pizza, pasta, salads, and subs. Indoor and outdoor seating. Live music outside on the patio Friday and Saturday nights. Steve George and Friends will be playing from 6-9 PM on Friday. Jules & The Agreeables (Juliana MacDowell) will be playing from 5-8 PM on Saturday. Featuring Hacker Schorr Oktoberfest beer in addition to our regular lineup: Guinness, Coors, Miller Lite, Corona, Bud Lite, Mich Ultra, Heineken in bottles and Sierra Nevada and Yuengling on tap.

Back Street Brews

Back Street Brews Coffee, Tea, & Ice Cream. Indoor and outdoor seating. In addition to regular menu, during the fest, Back Street Brews is excited to host local Barnhouse Brewery serving Barnhouse Festbier, Kittocton Kolsch, and Harvest Hefe (Hefeweizen).

Continued on page 14

Local Happenings from Lovettsville Restaurants & Shops

Continued from page 13

Cassia Asian Bistro

Cassia Asian Bistro where the taste of Asia meets modern elegance. We pride ourselves in serving the most authentic and delicious dishes from different regions of Asia. Our menu includes a wide selection of appetizers, soups and salads, entrees, and Cassia Chef’s Specials.

Daughter Thai

Daughter Thai is the perfect place to enjoy traditional Thai cuisine in a modern and stylish setting. Also serving Thai Iced Coffee, Bubble Tea, and Asian beers.

Rasco NY Pizza

Our restaurant specializes in New York Style pizzas, pastas, subs, salads and much more! We have a casual, family-friendly dining room to make you feel at home while you enjoy our authentic Italian food.

Rodeo’s Mexican Bar & Grill

Rodeo’s Mexican Bar & Grill offers indoor and outdoor seating. We serve delicious, authentic Mexican food, Tex Mex favorites, margaritas, and an assortment of Mexican beers and sodas.

Velocity Wings

Velocity Wings has indoor and outdoor seating. Serving award winning wings, salads, burgers, and more. Velocity serves fresh, never frozen free-range chicken from Virginia. During the Fest on Saturday, Velocity is accepting festival beer tickets for Booby Beer made by Lost Rhino to benefit local non-profit Walk4Mountains.

Distinguished Residents of Lovettsville

2023 is an auspicious year for Lovettsville and the German Settlement heritage, an occasion to recognize people whose lives are part of the fabric and traditions of this community. Each in their own way have contributed the threads that hold Lovettsville, the German Settlement together as a community.

Grace Hummer

(pictured with son Steve)

Richard and Grace Hummer moved into what the columnist Russell Baker described as a “huge white wedding cake” or the “Sears, Roebuck house” in Lovettsville in 1966 with their son, Steve and daughter. In 1982 Richard was elected mayor and Grace to town council. The following year, 1983 was the Tricentennial of the first German Settlement in America and commemorated by Presidential Proclamation by Ronald Reagan and Governor Robb. The anniversary inspired Grace Hummer, then Lovettsville

Town Council woman and wife of the mayor, the late Richard Hummer, to propose, promote and organize “A Celebration of Heritage” that has become the renowned and signature event of this community and has been designated “Best in Loudoun” attracting thousands of visitors from across the country. The scope of Mrs. Hummer’s vision included A German Band Concert, waltz and polka dance contests, craft sales and demonstrations, a children’s folk concert, the German supper and the cornerstone closing at St. James church. Grace Hummer’s vision has expanded and continues to this day as we celebrate another Oktoberfest. 2023 is now the 340th anniversary of the first German settlement in America. The Town of Lovettsville and the Lovettsville Oktoberfest Committee are pleased to finally recognize, honor and thank Grace Hummer for her service to the Town of Lovettsville on this 40th anniversary of “A Celebration of Heritage”, the first official Lovettsville Oktoberfest.

Distinguished Residents of Lovettsville

Roland and Nancy England

2023 also marks another anniversary, the 290th of the founding of St. James United Church of Christ, formerly known as the German Reformed Church. It’s members under the leadership of Elder Wilhelm Wenner settled in the Loudoun Valley and established “the German Settlement” a century before Lovettsville appeared on the map. This was Roland’s first church just out of seminary. In 1983 Reverend Roland England and his wife Nancy with Elaine Walker as chairperson, they led St. James congregation and indeed the entire town in celebration of 250 years. We are pleased that Roland and Nancy are with us again on the 290th anniversary of the congregation. Roland and Nancy have dedicated their lives to their maker and to serving the people of Lovettsville, the German Settlement of the Loudoun Valley, Brunswick, Maryland, Winchester and at old St. Paul at Neersville, Between the Hills as spiritual guides and civic leaders. Nancy was a partner and homemaker, a church volunteer, a volunteer for Lovettsville Elementary School. She took up nursing as a second career, employed by Loudoun Hospital in Leesburg and Loudoun Inova Hospital in Lansdown for a total of 24 years. They raised their three sons here and both volunteered in youth sports programs. Although the Englands have retired to Boonsboro, Maryland now, they are continually present in the life of this community. They have woven grace, peace, and civility into the fabric of our lives.

Dottie and Harold Gladstone

On the occasion of the St. James anniversary 40 years ago Pastor England opened the metal box, time capsule from the cornerstone that had been placed there in 1901. Dottie and Harold Gladstone were there to witness the occasion. The couple and their family are longtime residents. Dot is a direct descendant of Wilhelm Wenner, the pioneer elder of the Reformed Church. The Gladstones have been and continue to be active in the life of the community. Dot has authored a book for children, “Murphy, the little frog who wanted to read” and “A China Adventure” a memoire of Dot’s parent’s missionary journey to China on the eve of World War II. Harold an electrical engineer by profession, served as the Union Cemetery corporate superintendent for 22 years and is the resident genealogy authority on the Booth and Mann families. They restored the old Mann homestead near Dutchman’s Creek and the old Booth family burial ground on the property. “My contribution was to help raise 3 kids”, Dot wrote. “They were my life as well as the church.” This simple statement reveals the truth that has and holds the families and this community together.

Distinguished Residents of Lovettsville

Nancy Orndorff was born and raised in Lovettsville. At time when young women in athletics attracted little attention or were ignored altogether, Nancy was a star player on the women’s basketball team. She went on to coach girls Senior Babe Ruth softball teams, Women’s League basketball, volleyball and girls gymnastics. In 1974 became the first manager of the Lovettsville Community Center. She oversaw its restoration after the devastating fire of November 1976. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, with the love and support of her husband and family, Nancy coached and mentored several generations of young people at the community center by creating a welcoming and safe venue for sports. after school activities, and day care. She led bus trips. She planned senior citizen dinners and recreational activities; established a pre-school, organized, craft fairs, community dances, and hosted diners including the traditional Oktoberfest diner sponsored by the Lovettsville Lions Club. Nancy has been called “the rock of the community center”. Since her retirement in 1994 Nancy continues an active life among her family and in the community and her church.

Fred Lee George III and Anne DeCourcy George might be dubbed the “Power Couple” of Lovettsville. Fred has also been called the unofficial mayor of Lovettsville. He is a lifelong resident of the community, the scion of a family that has been an influence in the community since the beginning. He is the proud third generation of five generations of former B&O now CSX railroad men. He and Anne are a “get your hands dirty, hardworking, look for opportunities to enhance the quality of life of the community” team. When work needs to be done, when a neighbor needs a hand, they pull down old sheds, cut dead trees, paint, mow, bull doze and forklift. On their own initiative they have invested resources to renovate and restore historic properties.

They touch a myriad of activities in Lovettsville: the Lovettsville Game Protective Association, the Lovettsville Museum and Historical Society, the Lovettsville Oktoberfest, St. James United Church of Christ. They host picnics, bus trips and fund raisers. Most importantly they care for the people and heritage of this community and for the welfare of generations to come.

Distinguished Residents of Lovettsville

Henry and Debbie Pearson

Henry Pearson was born and raised in Lovettsville VA and is a lifelong resident. He graduated from Loudoun Valley High School and started his career as a line foreman with Tri-County Electric, now known as NOVEC. Henry retired from NOVEC in 2006 after 38 years of service. He is married to Debbie and they have 2 daughters (both residents of Lovettsville) and 5 grandchildren. Henry coached the Lovettsville Babe Ruth and Lovettsville Girl’s Softball teams for many years. He was well known for his skill in men’s softball and has played on many local teams, well into adulthood. He is a life member of the Lovettsville Game Protective Association and has volunteered many hours helping with community events, carnivals, and fishing derbies. Henry started working for the Town of Lovettsville in 2008 hired by Keith Markel and Elaine Walker. He takes pride in his work making Lovettsville a Town to be proud of by helping decorate the town, assisting with parades, setting up special town events and getting the tree ready for the annual tree lighting ceremony. Henry has seen many changes over the years, realizing change is inevitable. He enjoys gardening and hunting. His favorite pastime is spending time with his family, especially his grandkids. You will always find Henry with a smile on his face and willing to offer a helping hand.

In Conclusion

The quality of a community is determined by its fabric, the life threads of generations woven into the landscape. The early settlers in this valley began the weaving process, one life at a time, some in joy, others in pain, anguish, and anger. Once they were not a people. They were strangers in a new land. But now they are a people, a community made up of families like the Hummers, the Englands, the Gladstones, the Orndorffs, the Georges, and the Pearsons whose everyday lives, visions, hopes, cares, skills and faiths have created the rich tapestry that we now call home. We honor them for whom they are, for being among us and for touching our lives.

LoveTTsviLLe GaMe ProTecTive associaTion

Located in Lovettsville on Berlin Turnpike is a large white building that is a landmark to the area referred to as “The Game Club”. The Lovettsville Game Protective Association was organized in 1947 by a group of local gentlemen who were interested in protecting the wildlife of the area. Seeing that their numbers were diminishing, the original 25 members used their own money to release pheasants, quail and wild turkey into the wild. They also re-stocked creeks and farm ponds with fish. At this time they purchased 4 acres on the Berlin Pike. In 1951 they held the first Carnival and have hosted one every year since.

In 1954 the club incorporated and purchased an additional 2 acres of land. Construction of the building was begun in 1957 and completed in 1958. Since then, the Hall has provided a meeting place for many groups, clubs and organizations. In its’ years of service to the community, the Game Club has seen many carnivals and Saturday night dances as well as wedding and funeral receptions. The Association has made a great contribution to many worthwhile community projects and activities, attracting all ages.

Before the days of County Parks and Recreation, the only ball field in town was at the Elementary School. The town had several ball teams, both softball and baseball. In the 1960’s a fast pitch softball team made up of local men, (Gary English, Jimmy Kane, Tommy Wenner, Lane Reed to name a few, and coached by Pete George) approached the Game Club about the possibility of creating a ball field on their property. The Game Club agreed. Those same men laid out and built the field still in use today. They made a backstop out of scrap pipe and fence and the outfield perimeter out of snow fence. Over the years many men, women, boys and girls have enjoyed the use of that field.

In 1961 the Club purchased a farm with a large pond off of Georges Mill Road. Every May the Game Club hosts a Fishing Derby. This is a free, family event offering a prize for every child and trophies for the largest Trout, Catfish, and Bass caught.

The Association is a non-profit organization.

WALKER PAVILION-BIERGARTEN ON THE GREEN:

11am-10:45pm: Beer Taps Open

10:30am: Oktoberfest Fassmarsch @ Red Bud Lane to the Biergarten on the Green

11:00am: Opening Ceremony & Ceremonial Keg Tapping

11:30am: Recognition of Lovettsville's Distinguished Citizens

Noon-3pm: Live Music: Alte Kumpel Band

4-7pm: Live Music: Pöol Boys

8pm-11pm: Live Music: The Reflex Times are approximate and subject to change

MAP KEY

Biergarten

Vendor Village

Kinderfest

Shopping

VIP Parking Parking

Restrooms

Accessible Needs Restrooms

First Aid

Information Tent and Lost Persons

Merchandise Sales

Accessible Needs Parking Only

Accessible Needs Drop-off and Pick-up

Food ATM

Shuttle Stop Closed Streets Vendors

KINDERFEST ON OKTOBERFEST WAY:

10:30am: Opening Ceremony: King & Queen Lead Chicken Dance

11am-5pm: Oktoberfest/Kid-Friendly DJ & Games by Bach to Rock Noon-4pm: Make Your Own Crowns with Lovettsville Elementary PTO Times are approximate and subject to change.

BIERGARTEN ON 6 PENNSYLVANIA

Come listen and dance Bavarian performers! 11am-5:30pm: 12:30pm-5:30pm: 12:30pm-5:30pm: Times are

Wiener

Many thanks to 2023 Oktoberfest Planning Committee

Lizzy Fontaine, Festmeisterin

Nico Adlung, 2022 Oktoberfest King & Entertainment Coordinator

Tom Budnar, Town Council Representative & Volunteer Coordinator

Gail Giovannucci, Vendor Coordinator

Christopher Hornbaker, Mayor and Ex-Officio Member

Phil Lertora, Getrankewagon Coordinator

Jimmy McCartin, Contest Coordinator

Andie Miller, Biermeister & Lions Club Liaison

Jennifer Reed, Town Council Member & Member-At-Large

Jim Roshannon, Secretary

David Smith, Planning Commission Representative

Mike Zapf, Member Emeritus

2023 Long Term Volunteers

Dana Jones, Kinderfest Coordinator

Dave Kirk, Lions Club Liaison

Jim Rauer, Treasurer

Rebecca Lertora, Merchandise Coordinator

Joy Pritz, Town Council Member & Logistics Coordinator

Thank You to Town staff for their support and helping to make this year’s festival a success.

The 2023 Committee would also like to thank everyone who contributed to our 2023 Festival.

Oktoberfest Sponsors

Platinum:

STILLWATER GOVERNMENT SERVICES

Gold Plus:

Bakerture Photography

All Points Broadband

Geary Higgins/Caleb Kershner

Bank of Clarke

Gold:

Cannabreeze Hemp

Willow’s Vintage Charm

One Family Brewing Co.

Silver Plus: Select Physical Therapy

Silver: Novec

Lovettsville Lions Club

Bronze Plus:

BEG’N Pet Services by Beth Dombrowsky

Kathy Shipley Remax Executives

Wild’s Edge Fitness Co.

Endhardt Vineyards

Bronze:

Fuog/Interbuild, Inc.

Parsonage Handmade Soap

The Co-op Market

OceanLily LLC

Oktoberfest Sponsors

In-Kind:

Bach to Rock Lansdowne

Purcellville Florist

Hofbräuhaus of America

Affordable Sheds

Loudoun County Parks and Rec

Lovettsville Game Protective Association

Upper Loudoun Little League (ULLL)

Town of Middleburg

Town of Purcellville

Washington Sangerbund

One Family Gives

West End Motors

Weis Market Brunswick

Matt and Sarah Moseley at Seven Blessings Farm

Harris Teeter

Hilt Face Painting

Browning Equipment

Fred George

Lost Rhino

Fitness Image Results

by Beth Dombrowsky

Kathryn L. Shipley

Vendor Listings By Category

Arts & Crafts

A Squared Design/Happy Little Dots

Amazing Crystals

Angry Buddha Body Shop

Baby Squid Crafts

Billy’s Hobby Shop

Blu Design Co.

BW Pets Designs

Charlotte’s Web by Laura

Color Street - Fancy Nancy’s Beauty

Boutique

Creations by Liv

Darkflower Books and Folk Art

Empowers Martial Arts

Frog Music Garden

Gabriel Mastracci

Good Looks 24/7

Honeycomb Heroes LLC

Food, Beer & Wine

A Southern Fish Fry

Asian Grill / Sian9 Dan9

Blue Ridge Kettle Korn LLC

BomBurger

Cryo Candy

Daughter Thai

Döner Bistro

Gruto’s Catering

Kaye’s Mini Doughnuts

Kona Ice of Martinsburg

Little Austria

Itumiray

Isthmanian Trading Company, LLC.

Let’s Matchie

Nordik Kraft

Pink Buggy Designs

Poppi’s Hot Sauce

RockStar Designs

Round 2 Accessories

Rustic Slate Candle Company

Sweet Harmony Farm

SYMONDS STUDIOS

Taylorstown Pottery

The Bits and Bops Shop

The Warrior Blends

Too Awesome

Warmglass Designs

Ly Nguyên

My Empanadas

skrimp shack food truck

Sweet and Savory by Karen

sweetFrog

The fermented pig

theGedunkFoodTruck

TK Grill

Traveling Bros cigars

Tzone Dessert Bar

Washington Saengerbund

Vendor Listings By Category

Health

Excelsior Orthodontics

Dr. Tari with Northern Virginia Orthodontics

Jewelry

Oddball Jewelers (and Scarfs)

On a Whim

Kids

Fun Stuff 4 Kids, Inc

Hilt Face Painting

Organizations

A Fighting Chance Foundation

American Legion

BSA Troop 962

Catoctin Committee for John Ellis

Clerk of the Circuit Court

F3

Lions Club

Services

Renewal By Andersen

Sunrise Party Rentals LLC

Palmercare Chiropractic

Round 2 Accessories

Skylar’s Enchanted Slime

Lockwood for Loudoun

Loudoun Rugby

Lovettsville Community Center

Lovettsville/Waterford Ruritans

Walk 4 Mountains - A walk for Breast Cancer

Sponsored Events

Main Biergarten Tent—Town Green

sponsored by Stillwater Human Capital/Government Services

Main Stage

sponsored by Bank of Clarke

Poöl Boys

sponsored by Bakerture Photography

Vip Tent

sponsored by Cannabreeze Hemp Farm

Shuttle Buses and Stops

sponsored by Geary Higgins for Delegate & Caleb Kershner for Catoctin District Supervisor

Wiener Dog Races Oktoberfest

sponsored by One Family Brewing

Stein-Hauling Contest

sponsored by Wild’s Edge Fitness

Stein-Hoisting Contests

sponsored by Lion’s Den Fitness

Crowning of Royalty

sponsored by Endhardt Vineyards Winery

Thanks for coming, see you next year!

LOVETTSVILLE OKTOBERFEST 2023

SEPTEMBER 22 and 23

Artwork provided by Lovettsville Elementary School fourth grade students and Ms. Michelle Rancourt, art teacher.