Photo Gallery: Oktoberfest Is Tradition

Thousands of people attended the 34th Annual Oktoberfest at the Most Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church in Gulfport. More than 200 volunteers put on the four-day event that's become a highly anticipated event in the community. The good times started on Thursday and wrapped up Sunday night. Oktoberfest also is for a good cause. It's an annual fundraiser for the church.

What keeps it going?

"It's just a community fair! I think it's the people that put it on," Treasurer Janet McNamara said.

McNamara said there were 16 carnival rides, several games, arts & crafts, basket raffles and more throughout the four-day event. Popular activities included BING Ball, the Cake Walk and the Sweet Shoppe inside the Maria Center.

Entertainment included the Urban Gypsies, Boca Ciega Jazz Band, King Trumpet & Friend, Jim Brad and more. Hank Shaw DJ'd throughout the weekend.

Friends and family members at the "Spanish Cafe" kept customers happy with authentic Spanish cuisine including tacos, empanadas, rice, beans and other popular dishes.

"It's a fundraiser for the church," Mildred Dones said.

"We do this every year, we're a bunch of friends and family, we look forward to it," Joe Rosa said.

Rosa says they've had the food booth at Oktoberfest for at least the past five years.

Did you go? We want to see your photos too! Attach them on this story or email them to the Editor at cherlene.willis@patch.com.