GLUCKSTADT – Germanfest has been part of St. Joseph Parish and its community for 28 years as a way to celebrate and honor those who came from Germany to this country at the beginning of the 1900s and settled in this part of the state. According to the parish’s history, many of the descendants of the original families still attend St. Joseph Parish.
As every year, the festival was held on the last Sunday of September. Organizers said many come to enjoy authentic German food and music, others like the family oriented atmosphere where children play and dance in the open field of the church grounds.
Still others acknowledge it is that special sauerkraut. Many don’t leave the grounds without buying some jars for later. But while there, they taste some shish kabobs and bratwurst slathered in sauerkraut.
In a separate tent, a plethora of authentic German home-made desserts prepared by members of the parish along with pies, cookies and pastries attracted festival attendees.
Parishioners also donate homemade crafts such as baby blankets and jewelry to sell at the event.
What makes this festival special is the love and effort of the whole parish community who work together making this event enjoyable for all and at the same time a fund-raiser for the parish. Part of the proceeds are donated to several non-profit organizations.