The South Coast Business Alliance, an all-volunteer, non-profit organization, has been sponsoring an Oktoberfest celebration in New Bedford for the past 15 years.

The 2020 event was postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but organizers decided to resume the celebration in 2021. Masks will not be required, but they will be available for those who feel they need them.

Oktoberfest New Bedford will be held Saturday, October 2 from 3 p.m. to midnight in a huge tent on Pier Three, just behind the Black Whale restaurant.

Deb Aguiar and Chris Resendes of the South Coast Business Alliance said that Oktoberfest is a German tradition that dates back to 1810.

New Bedford Oktoberfest is a fun event that showcases local music, local food and local brews. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door.

Here's something really amazing: in its 15-year history, Oktoberfest has raised more than $800,000, and every cent of that money (minus expenses) has been donated to local organizations to better the lives of underprivileged kids. Recent recipients of funding include the New Bedford Boys and Girls Club, Bristol County Child Advocacy Center, Gnome Surf of Fall River, Friends of Jack, Girls on the Run and Dennison Memorial.

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Resendes and Aguiar said it is a community event that really helps at-risk kids in the community and all are invited.

Townsquare Sunday is a weekly public affairs program heard Sunday mornings on 1420 WBSM. The program highlights individuals and organizations working to make the SouthCoast a better place to live and work.

If you would like your organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please e-mail the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.

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