CINCINNATI — Some people may be shocked to learn that the first day of Oktoberfest Zinzinnati isn’t already an official holiday in the Queen City.
On Thursday, Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley used his executive powers to remedy that glaring oversight.
"Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is one of our most important traditions," Cranley said in a press release. "And it’s time we recognize it as the holiday it is!"
The Mayor declared Friday, Sept. 20, the first day of Oktoberfest Zinzinnati festivities this year a city-wide half-day holiday. Festival organizers, the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber also announced it is expanding Oktoberfest by kicking off the fun at 11 a.m. Friday instead of the traditional 5 p.m. start time.
Oktoberfest Zinzinnati will take place 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday on Second and Third streets between Elm and Walnut streets, Downtown.
"Oktoberfest in Munich is two weeks long," said Lori Salzarulo, the chamber’s event manager for Oktoberfest Zinzinnati. "Maybe that’s what we should be working toward as well! Celebrate early this year, and let’s see how we can grow!"
Click here for more information about this year’s Oktoberfest Zinzinnati.
