Fort Belvoir Oktoberfest kicks off

overhead view of fairground from last year's event
(Fort Belvoir MWR image)

The kegs will officially be tapped tonight at 6 p.m. at Fort Belvoir’s 23rd annual Oktoberfest, which kicked off last night at Fremont Field.

This year’s festival — which lasts through Sunday — will feature a few new elements, including pony and horseback rides from Tamarack Stables of Lorton, and a host of activities promoting healthier living, courtesy of the Healthy Army Communities BE STRONG Tour.

Two men holding beer steins at a bar
(Fort Belvoir MWR image)

The activities will include a healthy cooking competition hosted by celebrity chef Andrew Gruel; an Alpha Warrior Battle Rig featuring celebrity warrior athletes Tawnee Leonard and Kevin Klein; and musical and comedic performances, including by San Diego-based party band Liquid Blue.

Department of Defense (DoD) card holders will be able to access Oktoberfest via the new Lieber Gate this year, while visitors without a military/DoD ID card need to obtain a visitor’s pass at the Visitors Center at Tulley Gate. A full list of instructions on garrison access — and other details about the Oktoberfest — can be viewed on the Fort Belvoir Family and MWR website.