WXOW News 19 La Crosse, WI – News, Weather and Sports |Oktoberfest celebration continued well into the night
The Oktoberfest celebration continued well after sunset. If you hold a La Crosse Oktoberfest, they will come and they did. People linning the streets of downtown.
Jim Gordon hasen't missed an Oktoberfest since 1974.
"The fun and the kids of course. I was a kid when I started comming here," says Gordon.
And Andrea Chick, she's attended the fest for over a decade.
"We actually went on vacation and this year to San Francisco for a week and we had to make sure our trip came back on Thursday so we were here for Oktoberfest, " says Andrea.
Police and Tri-State paramedics walked the area, just incase they were needed.
"The crowd is very friendly. People having a good time. We have treated some minor injuries, spranged ankles and cut toes, but by large it's people have a good, safe time, " says Chief Edward Kondracki.
Police encouraged everyone to be on their best at Oktoberfest.
"I think it's mostly a big reunion for all the college kids that have graduated from here in years passed and its a family gathering opportunity and this area of Third Street draws them down here," says Captain Gary Uting.
"This year seems alittle bit more busy. I worked last night as well that was more busy than last year seems more safe, but more people," says Paramedic Eric Ellis.
And some words of advice for festers.
"Pre-plan, make sure you have a way home, cell phone is charge and always buddy up," says Director of Tri-State Ambulance, Matt Zavadsky.
Downtown has sort of cleared. Traffics resumed and streets are now reopen. I guess maybe people are taking a break or resting after last nights festivities afterall Oktoberfest does continue through next Saturday.
Reporter---Julie Salomone, News 19.
