Presented and catered by Thirsty Dog Brewing Company, Oktoberfest is making its way to Lock 3 in downtown Akron on Friday, Oct. 5 from 5:30-10 p.m., and Saturday, Oct. 6 from 6-10 p.m. Hofbrauhaus, a Cleveland-based German brewery, will also be catering at the event.

Oktoberfest is known for its authentic German cuisine, but most widely known for the drinking of German lagers.

According to Lock 3’s website, live music will be performed by the Chardon Polka Band.

As a modern polka band attempting to bring polka music into the new generation, the Chardon Polka Band started as a high school band and has continued to play at the national level, while being well known in the “Oktoberfest circuit,” their website said.

Oktoberfest dates back to 1810 when German Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. Their union prompted a week-long celebration beginning on Oct. 17. This celebration became a yearly tradition based out of Bavaria, Germany, but has moved in recent years to Munich, Germany.

Oktoberfest in the United States is known to be an autumn festival, generally being held in late September or early October, according to the Delaware Saengerbund and Library Association.

Oktoberfest is a way for Akron residents to celebrate the arrival of fall with a variety of drinks and food while giving residents something to do over the weekend and setting the mood for Halloween festivities.

This is an outdoor event, so residents are advised to dress for the weather.

Admission is free, but attendees should bring money for food and drinks.