THUNDER BAY – The Sleeping Giant Brewing company held its annual Oktoberfest celebration event on Saturday which, Andrea Mulligan, CEO and co-founder of Sleeping Giant Brewing Company, says was exciting because they were able to come back “bigger and better than ever” after the COVID-19 pandemic.
“So, you know, we've been fortunate to be able to have two very small Oktoberfest under restrictions. So, [it was] fun, but still a little challenging,” she said.
“So, this is definitely our first Oktoberfest since the pandemic, where it's going to be Jam packed with people having lots of fun, you know, lots of activities, be able to move around and really enjoy each other's company and the party.”
Saturday morning feature some family fun activities including face painting, and some activities with Science North and Saturday night featured a party to celebrate Oktoberfest.
“We're highlighting some local artisans at our barrel-house, which is a secondary location 2 doors down from the flagship brewery,” said Mulligan.
“And yeah, just lots of good food, good beer, kids' activities during the day and then lots of games and dancing and of course the poker pirates.”
The Sleeping Giant Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest celebration has been a fundraiser since its conception with proceeds partially going to help the community.
“Originally it started many years ago as a fundraiser and we've still remained [a fundraiser]. We used to be filed with the Rotary Club, now, we're fortunate to be working with our kids count, so it's just again celebrating, you know, piggyback, piggybacking off of German tradition,” Mulligan said.
“My background is my mother was born in Germany, but for us it's just, you know, having that wonderful celebration of people and beer that happens every year in Munich, so we just try to emulate that and bring it to our city of TB.
Mulligan says one of the best things about this year’s event is seeing families and friends able to go out together gain following the pandemic.
“We have a lot of large groups that have booked tickets tonight and everyone just booking together,” she said. “You know, looking to get together to have a great time and just again, you know minus those restrictions and being able to enjoy all the good things in life.”
