FORT HOOD, Texas – The Fort Hood Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation will host the annual Fort Hood Oktoberfest from 5 to 9 p.m. Sept. 19 at Sadowski Parade Field.

The celebration will officially kick off with a traditional keg-tapping ceremony and feature authentic German-style food and refreshments available throughout the evening. Attendees will also enjoy live musical performances, cultural demonstrations, and festive games for all ages, highlighted by the crowd-favorite stein-hoisting competition.

Family-friendly activities scheduled throughout the evening include face painting, a mobile rock wall and interactive craft stations. Attendees and community members are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and blankets.

The event is free and open to the public, welcoming all service members, military families, and neighboring community members. Civilians without a Department of Defense identification card may obtain an installation visitor pass at the Marvin Leath Visitor Center or may apply online for a pass at pass.aie.army.mil.

Media wishing to cover the event must RSVP to Fort Hood Media Relations at 254-449-4023 no later than 3 p.m. Sept. 18.

Media covering Oktoberfest should arrive by 4:30 p.m. Sept. 19 at the south-side parking lot of the Marvin Leath Visitor Center for an escort by a public affairs representative.