The Dayton Art Institute is seeking community volunteers as it prepares for its 45th annual Oktoberfest, taking place September 23-25.
The Dayton Art Institute needs volunteers to assist with a variety of roles throughout the three-day festival. Oktoberfest is the museum’s largest annual fundraiser, and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of more than 2,000 volunteers each year.
“Our volunteers are the lifeblood of Oktoberfest, and we truly appreciate the many hours of time they donate to help support the museum,” said Oktoberfest Chairs Dave Seyer and Keith Wyatt. “We are honored to be chairing this year’s event and look forward to an amazing weekend on the grounds of The Dayton Art Institute!”
There are many different volunteer opportunities available at Oktoberfest 2016, including selling Oktoberfest mugs and t-shirts, selling soft drinks and water, staffing admission gates, serving as greeters in the museum, and assisting with family activities at the ACCO Brands FamilyFest.
Those interested in volunteering at Oktoberfest must register through The Dayton Art Institute’s website. For more information and to register, visit www.daytonartinstitute.org/oktoberfest.
OVERVIEW OF OKTOBERFEST WEEKEND:
LEDERHOSEN LUNCH: Join The DAI on Friday, September 23, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., for a community lunch, hosted by The DAI’s Associate Board Alumni. Admission to the festival grounds is free; brats, metts, schnitzel sandwiches, German salads, homemade noodles and beverages are available for purchase. Guests can also buy event tickets, Oktoberfest mugs, and Oktoberfest t-shirts.
PREVIEW PARTY: Oktoberfest begins with the Preview Party, presented by Premier Health, on September 23, 7-11 p.m. Highlights include complimentary draft beer, wine and soft drinks (plus cash bar for premium craft and international beers), 
more than 65 artisan exhibitors and 30 food vendors, and entertainment by festival favorites, the Chardon Polka Band. Advance tickets for the Preview Party are $55 for members and $75 for non-members. All tickets purchased at the gate are $95.
SATURDAY & SUNDAY: Oktoberfest 2016, presented by Miller Lite, takes place Saturday, September 24, noon – 11:00 p.m., and Sunday, September 25, noon – 7:00 p.m. Oktoberfest includes a fully covered Main Stage viewing area, Food Court, and “TV Cave” with four big-screen TVs for all the weekend football action. Live music will be featured on two stages throughout the weekend. The ACCO Brands FamilyFest offers activities for all ages in the museum and on the grounds.
Oktoberfest advance tickets (Saturday & Sunday) are $5 adults, $3 seniors and youth (ages 7-18). Tickets purchased at the gate are $7 adults, $5 seniors and youth. Children 6 and under are free.
Advance tickets for the Preview Party and Oktoberfest go on sale August 15 and may be purchased online at www.daytonartinstitute.org/oktoberfest, by calling 937-223- 4ART (4278), or in person at the museum’s Guest Services Desk during regular hours.
For more information about The Dayton Art Institute, please visit www.daytonartinstitute.org or call the museum at 937-223-4ART (4278). Tickets for most Dayton Art Institute events, exhibitions and programs may also be purchased online at www.etix.com. Be sure to connect with The Dayton Art Institute on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest for additional information, behind-the-scenes photos and exclusive offers.
