Waukesha Common Council approves vendor agreements for 2025 Oktoberfest

The City of Waukesha is gearing up for its highly anticipated Oktoberfest, scheduled for September 19 and 20, 2025, with key vendor agreements approved during the recent Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Board meeting. The board unanimously endorsed two significant agreements aimed at enhancing the festival experience for attendees.

The first agreement involves the Kiwanis Club of Waukesha, which will sell merchandise at the event, receiving 15% of sales. This partnership marks the club's longstanding involvement with Oktoberfest, contributing to both merchandise sales and event staging. The second agreement is with Capotosa, a new food vendor, which will offer a fish fry on Friday and charcuterie and Reuben rolls throughout the festival. The city will receive 20% of Capotosa's sales, adding a fresh culinary option to the event.

Board members emphasized the importance of keeping prices affordable for families attending the festival. Alderman Jennifer Walter urged the Parks Department to work closely with vendors to manage costs, suggesting that small price increments could help maintain accessibility for all attendees. The Parks Department acknowledged this concern, noting that they strive to keep events family-friendly and affordable, with the support of sponsors playing a crucial role in this effort.

Concerns were raised about introducing new vendors and potential competition with established ones. However, the Parks Department reassured members that careful consideration is given to vendor selection to ensure a balanced and enjoyable experience for both vendors and attendees. The overall sentiment from the board was positive, with a commitment to maintaining the festival's quality and community spirit.

As Waukesha prepares for Oktoberfest, the focus remains on creating an engaging and accessible event that celebrates local culture and community involvement.