Oktoberfest is a big name for the German Central Florida Association, but for years they have helped people make it through their cravings with Spring Toberfest through Schnitzels and pretzels. This year, they are trying something new.
The first Springfest International, held on April 12th from noon to 9pm at the association’s clubhouse (381 Orange Lane, Casselberry), will not only be used by all German fans, but also feature food and cultural performances from other countries.
“We wanted to differentiate ourselves from the Oktoberfest,” says Maureen Agenbach, director of the Florida Central Association of the German American Association.
“Orlando is diverse and I wanted the event to reflect that.”
As such, guests will enjoy the presence of the city’s Bulgarian, Romanian, Slovenian and Ukrainian communities. Georgia is also represented along with its presence from the UK.
Agenbag says it is encouraged to wear traditional clothing from your own culture.
“Even if we’re not among the people we’re involved,” she says.
The vibrant and extremely family-friendly event begins at noon at Nonstop Entertainment, Kinder Korner with activities for kids and adults.
Grow a real German beer Stein – you can also hold one for a hard armed competition and see who can last the group longer – and enjoy it with festival favourites such as Bratwalst, potato pancakes, apple strudel, black forest cakes, and the aforementioned schnitzel and pretzel. Other countries are also shown on the menu, introducing the fares in their hometown.
“Entertainment will be constant,” Agenbag says. “There’s always something on stage. There’s a typical German Schuplatler dance where performers slap the thighs as well as Bulgarian and Ukrainian dancers, bagpipers and Irish jigs. There’s also an international dance group.
“We want to expose central Floridians to a variety of beautiful cultures in the European world, especially those that are less popular than other cities in Orlando.”
Tickets are $7 in advance at EventBrite (Eventbrite.com/e/spring-international-sturday-april-12-2025-Tickets-1147037874159) and $10 at the gate. Children under the age of 11 are permitted free of charge. For more information, please visit orlandogermanclub.com/springfest.
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