GermanFest at Riverscape canceled, alternative Picnic to-go being planned
The 2020 Germanfest Picnic has been canceled due to the continued uncertainty amid the COVID-19 situation.
GermanFest at Riverscape canceled, alternative Picnic to-go being planned
The Planning Committee for the GermanFest Picnic in Dayton has canceled plans for its 2020 summer festival, due to the continued uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. The annual celebration had been scheduled for August 14-16 at Riverscape Metropark in downtown Dayton.
In a statement posted on the festival website, organizers said they plan to return for the 38th year of the event in 2021.
"As with cancellations of other large festivals and public gatherings, concerns and requirements associated with public health and safety stemming from the COVID19 situation, preclude staging the GermanFest Picnic in its traditional format," the statement read.
GermanFest Picnic, voted #3 festival in the region celebrates German heritage with authentic German food, drink, music, and crafts. The event has continuous live entertainment and festival goers can enjoy many activities, including a Bavarian Fashion Show, Dachshund Races, and a traditional Polka mass.
But what people look forward to the most is the food. Let's face it, nothing beats those schnitzel dinners, brats, metts, and of course, the traditional German potato salad.
Alternative "GermanFest Picnic LITE" being planned
Many festival-goers may not know that the GermanFest Picnic also represents the major annual fundraiser for the Liederkranz-Turner, Dayton’s oldest German Society.
To address the financial challenges of canceling the festival, and to "maintain the spirit and Gemuetlichkeit of GermanFest" the organization hopes to hold an alternative "GermanFest Picnic Lite" on the festival weekend, which may include pre-packaged dinners for pick-up.
Further details will be announced in the coming weeks.
This story will be updated as further details become available.
