Milwaukee set to celebrate 'Fred Usinger Day' with free bratwurst

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Thursday, Feb. 23 marks the 16th annual Fred Usinger Day, a celebration of the 140-year legacy of Usinger's sausages in the Milwaukee community.

The festivities are being hosted by the Old German Beer Hall and will offer one free Usinger sausage per person. The celebration runs from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., or while supplies last.

The Old German Beer Hall's founder, Hans Weissgerber III said in a press release, "Over the past 16 years, Fred Usinger Day has become a Milwaukee holiday."

The Usinger sausage factory is located across the street from the beer hall, the Old German Beer Hall expects there should be little problem providing enough brats for everyone.

In addition to the free sausage, the Usinger store will offer specials on brats, wieners, deli meats, Braunschweiger, smoked pork chops and more from Feb. 23 - 25.

As part of the celebration, Frederick "Fritz" Usinger IV will tap a wooden keg of Hofbrau beer at 6 p.m. Those in attendance will have the opportunity to sample the Munich beer for free while the keg lasts.

Fritz Usinger was joined by Van Walker of the Old German Beer Hall in joining us on Monday, Feb. 20 to discuss more details. There is also more information at the Old German Beer Hall's website.