Big expansion planned for Outspoken’s Oktoberfest

After selling out its first-ever Oktoberfest at the Canal District last year, OutSpoken Brewery is planning on expanding the event into a regional tourist magnet.

The 2021 Oktoberfest served 300 patrons.

Now, Outspoken is planning to expand it into a two-day celebration with as many as 725 attendees.

On Monday, City Council is expected to approve a $5,000 municipal contribution from its tourism development fund.

The original Oktoberfest has been held since 1810 in Munich, Germany.

It now attracts more than six million attendees each year.

The Sault's version will be a two-day Volksfest/Bavarian cultural event spotlighting culinary tourism, music and interactive German-based competitions.

"Marketing will target regional attendees versus the southern Ontario market, to not compete with beer-focused events in that area," says a report to councillors.

"Traditionally, Oktoberfest-themed events occur in September, strategically this event will instead be held mid-October following the Agawa Canyon Tour season and aligning with one of Tourism Sault Ste. Marie’s priority sectors – shoulder season tourist activation."

Councillors are also expected to approve $3,500 in municipal support to bring the Ontario Baseball Association (U13 Boys) provincial championships to the Sault.

Sixteen teams from across the province will participate in the competition at Strathclair Sports Complex, drawing 680 out-of-town visitors.

Monday's City Council meeting will be livestreamed on SooToday starting at 4:30 p.m.