Downtown Owosso’s “Big Tent” for the Oct. 9, 10 and 11 Octoberfest begins with Country music Friday night, polkas for Saturday, then local artists on Sunday. Oktoberfest is presented by Frontier Communications.
“The entertainment lineup is sure to please Festivalgoers of all ages!” said Chamber President Jeff Deason. At 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9, Oktoberfest welcomes The Stolen Horses Band from Grand Rapids. “From baritone vocals to Tele Twang,” Stolen Horses is West Michigan’s premier Country band with Nashville-style musicians. This is a true Country group of the North. Stolen Horses will play covers from today’s charts, traditional country to the core, and best of all, originals from this extremely high-energy band.
Stolen Horses has performed such shows as “pre-party” for Rascal Flatts and the 2009 B-93 Birthday Bash. Stolen Horses has also opened for many national acts like Joe Nichols, Randy Houser, Zac Brown Band, Trailer Choir, Mel McDaniel, Radney Foster and many others. Performing in casinos, festivals, concerts and nightclubs, Stolen Horses brings on the energy and has a unique way of connecting with the crowd.
*Polka music highlights Saturday, Oct. 10. Returning to Owosso for the second year will be Lenny Gomulka & The Chicago Push from Massachusetts. The “Push” style of polka music is a term that was coined and trademarked by Lenny Gomulka in January 1980 when he formed his band named “Chicago Push.” Now, 34 years later, the “Push” style of polka music is well known among young musicians and polka audiences everywhere. Lenny Gomulka has led his band, the Chicago Push, in travels throughout the U.S. and abroad. In recognition of his music he has received a multitude of Grammy Award nominations, Polka Music awards, Keys to Cities and he has even earned an Induction into the International Polka Music Hall of Fame. “Push Records” is the vehicle, which markets Lenny Gomulka’s music. And his music is both traditional, appealing to the more mature fan as well as innovative, appealing to the young polka fan. It’s polka music, “Chicago Push” style and it’s all about keeping polka music alive. Lenny Gomulka delivers Chicago Push style music with the ultimate polka fan in mind. Polka music will begin at 5 p.m. and alternate with the variety band, One More Shot of the Frankenmuth/Saginaw area. Both six-piece bands will play until 11 p.m.
*Sunday, Oct. 11, entertainment will feature local artists with The Drum Circle beginning at noon. Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Jeff Deason stated, “The Shiawassee Regional Chamber of Commerce created Oktoberfest to celebrate the spirit of friendship and to honor Shiawassee County’s heritage and agricultural traditions. With many community partners, we are planning a festive, fall celebration and invite all residents to join in the fun!” The Main Beverage Co. Biergarten will feature a 3 to 5 p.m. “Happy Hour” with buy one, get one free admission. Admission to the Oktoberfest Biergarten is $10 per day or $15 for a weekend armband. Designated drivers will be provided free admission and a special armband for complimentary nonalcoholic beverages. For a detailed schedule of events, persons can check www.shiawasseechamber.org.
