Kegel's Inn cancels its annual 'Oktoberfest' festival amid pandemic

WEST ALLIS, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Kegel's Inn in West Allis recently announced its decision to cancel its 2020 'Milwaukee's First Oktoberfest' celebration due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. 

Its 8th annual Oktoberfest celebration benefits the West Milwaukee Lions Club and was originally scheduled to take place Friday, Aug. 28 through Sunday, Aug. 30. It was expected to bring approximately 5,000 people to a street party at the intersection of 59th and National Avenue. The festival traditionally features beers from as many as 18 different breweries, authentic German food, and live music. 

“This weekend is always one of our favorite times of the year, but we could not in good faith hold this event while we are still in a pandemic,” said Julian Kegel, owner and operator of Kegel’s Inn. “We are committed to hold this festival again next year and have it be bigger and better than ever.”

With the festival being cancelled this year, Kegel's and the Lions Club have set up a Go Fund Me page for those who are inclined to support the charity. 

“While we are saddened that our signature event will not happen this summer, we are still open to the public and have procedures in place that keep our staff and patrons safe,” said Kegel. “Come on over for our fantastic German specialties or a fish fry and spend some time in socially distancing with a great brew in our outdoor beer garden.”

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