Townie Night needs votes, Carle’s Family Zone offers a show
The Bratwurst Festival Board of Directors and dozens of volunteers are preparing for the annual Bratwurst Festival in downtown Bucyrus, which begins Thursday and runs through 11 p.m. Saturday.
This year’s theme is: “Battie supports our first responders!”
According to Kate Volk, director of public relations and community engagement, the festival is back with more excitement and community spirit than ever before.
“This year’s festival promises all the beloved traditions and some exciting new surprises. From the craft show, art show and 5K color run/walk to the highly anticipated second year of the beer garden, there really is something for everyone to enjoy,” Volk said.
Townie Night wants to give the festival a local voice
She said there will be an open mic event called Townie Night on Thursday at the FC Stage.
“This special evening is designed to bring the local community together in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to town, Townie Night is your chance to showcase your talent, meet friends and enjoy the festival in a way that’s truly Bucyrus,” Volk said.
To secure a place on stage, interested parties can register by email to [email protected].
Becky Lutz, the beer garden manager, is happy about the beer garden’s return for its second year.
“We are very excited to reopen the beer garden, which has quickly become a highlight of the festival,” said Lutz. “This year’s beer garden theme, ‘Bratwurst and beer never broke my heart,’ reflects the joy and camaraderie that defines our festival. It’s a place where people can come together, enjoy great beer and feel the fun and festive spirit of Bucyrus.”
Check out what’s happening in Carle’s Family Fun Zone; a surprise awaits you
Volk said Carle’s Family Fun Zone is the place for families who love to have fun.
“In this area, kids can enjoy a fantastic selection of activities completely free of charge. From noon until the start of the parade on Friday and Saturday, the Fun Zone is packed with exciting attractions,” Volk said. “Kids can jump into the Candy Scramble, test their skills on the mini golf course, get creative at the coloring station, challenge friends to bean bag toss, play giant Connect Four and cool off with water balloons. Plus, there are plenty of candy and other prizes for everyone.”
She said there will be special guests in the Fun Zone.
“On Friday and Saturday from 2 to 5 p.m., the Bucyrus Little Theater will bring beloved characters to life, including Mary Poppins, Jasmine, The Little Mermaid, Puss in the Hat and Charlie Brown, for meet-and-greet events, dancing and photo opportunities,” Volk said. “On Saturday from 2 to 5 p.m., a professional balloon artist will also be on-site creating amazing balloon sculptures that will delight children of all ages. It’s a weekend of unforgettable fun and excitement for the whole family.”
Volk said the festival board is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help make the Fun Zone a success.
“This is a great opportunity for high school students to collect volunteer hours. Interested volunteers can register via the link on our homepage,” said Volk.
More: Changing room area Crawford County Board of DD offers adult/general changing area at Bratwurst Festival
Organizing the Bratwurst Festival with heart and deeds
She said it has been a very rewarding experience to come back and volunteer at the festival, especially working with Adam Heinlen, the festival’s board chair, and the incredible team of volunteers.
“You can really see how much heart and effort goes into making this event a success. What I love most about Bratwurstfest is the sense of community it fosters. Seeing everyone come together – families, friends, neighbors – is a reminder of how close-knit and supportive Bucyrus really is. Being part of something that brings so much joy and pride to our town is incredibly fulfilling,” Volk said.
Heinlen has a close connection to the festival, which he is now helping to organize.
“The Bratwurstfest has always been a part of my life since I was growing up. It’s more than just an event; it’s a tradition that brings our community together year after year,” Heinlen said. “To see it continue to grow and thrive and now to play a role in its success means the world to me. This festival has deep roots in Bucyrus and I’m proud to be a part of something that means so much to so many.”
Larry West, who has returned to contribute to the festival’s success, shares his enthusiasm.
“Once a brattie, always a brattie. We do what needs to be done to let Bucyrus have some fun,” West said.
For more information about this year’s Bratwurst Festival, visit bucyrusbratwurstfestival.com.
