Crowds enjoy a taste of Germany during two-day Oktoberfest

It was a new location and new format for the Rio Rancho Oktoberfest this year.

In 2024, the event was expanded to a two-day run — Friday and Saturday — and held at the Sandoval County Administration Park in Bernalillo rather than Rio Rancho's Country Club Plaza.

"The Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce successfully hosted its annual Oktoberfest at the Sandoval County Administration Park, attracting a few thousand attendees over the course of two days," Jerry Schalow, RRRCC president and CEO said. "Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, the event saw strong community support, along with contributions from sponsors, vendors and dedicated volunteers who ensured its success.

"This year marked a change in format, expanding the celebration to two days. Friday evening proved to be an excellent addition, allowing families to enjoy the festivities after school and work before a busy Saturday filled with youth activities like soccer, volleyball, football, basketball and karate," he added.

The change in venue seemed to please the crowd as well. During a stein-holding competition, Schalow asked the crowd gathered under the beer tent if they wanted the event to return to its new location next year. The crowd hollered its approval.

PHOTOS: Rio Rancho Oktoberfest 2024

"The new location in the heart of Rio Rancho also received positive feedback, with many attendees appreciating its central location in the heart of Rio Rancho and the spacious grassy areas for family activities. In fact, a number of people chose to walk to the event due to its convenient proximity," Schalow said.

Dozens of vendors lined the grassy field Friday evening and for 10 hours Saturday, and a Kidszone was set up to entertain the little ones. Under the tent, local breweries sold beer, bands entertained and there were competitions such as best dressed (as many attendees, including Schalow, donned German attire) and the stein-holding competition with men's and women's flights.

Schalow said the chamber is "excited" to continue the Oktoberfest tradition in 2025 and plans to build on the success of the 2024 event. He also said that proceeds from the event go toward supporting chamber programs "that aim to enhance the local community, ensuring the positive impact continues year-round."