Turtle Back Zoo To Host 2016 Oktoberfest Celebration: Ales N’ Tails

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — A zoo might seem like an unusual place to hold an Oktoberfest celebration, but at the Turtle Back Zoo in Essex County, “ales and tails” go hand in hand.

County officials recently announced that the West Orange-based zoo will host an “Ales N’ Tails Oktoberfest” event from 6 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 1. According to a county news release, visitors will be able to sample over 50 craft beers during a fundraising evening to benefit the Essex County Parks Foundation. Seasonal brews from around the corner and from around the world will be available for tasting at stations throughout the zoo. A variety of food vendors will be on site as well. Entertainment will be provided by the Oompah Band, which performs German and Bavarian music.

Proceeds benefit the Essex County Parks Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that has worked with Essex since its formation in 1995 to help revitalize and promote the county’s parks and recreation facilities, officials stated.

“Ales N’ Tails Oktoberfest is an opportunity for a new audience to discover and experience Turtle Back Zoo while supporting the Essex County Parks Foundation, which has been an integral partner with our Parks Department,” Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo said. “The foundation has helped us obtain grants to build new playgrounds, introduce educational programming at our Environmental Center and promote activities throughout our Parks System.”

Tickets cost $60 for general admission and $15 for designated drivers. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.alesntails.com or https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ales-tails-oktoberfest-tickets-26185068244. Only guests ages 21 and over will be permitted. All guests must have a valid ID.

Ales ‘N Tails Oktoberfest will be held rain or shine, officials said.

Send local news tips, photos and press releases to eric.kiefer@patch.com