SIDNEY, Neb. — Sidney’s signature fall celebration, Oktoberfest, returns for its 51st year Oct. 3–5 at the Cheyenne County Fairgrounds and downtown Sidney.

Organizers expect about 7,000 people over the three days, with live music, ethnic foods, beer gardens, parades, games and long-standing traditions like the Running of the Wieners. The festival combines German and Scottish heritage, drawing vendors, entertainment and visitors from across the region.

The event begins Friday, Oct. 3, with the Oktoberfest Market and Craft Fair at the fairgrounds, followed by an opening ceremony - including the tapping of the keg - at noon and continuous entertainment in the beer tent through midnight. Saturday’s schedule includes the annual O’Fest Run at 7:30 a.m., the Oktoberfest parade downtown at 10 a.m., the Cruisin’ Classic Car Show in Legion Park, a golf scramble at Hillside Golf Course, horseshoe tournaments and televised Husker football inside the tent.

Sunday will feature a church service, more craft and food vendors and the popular Wiener Dog Races at 1 p.m. at the fairgrounds pavilion.

Admission is free. Organizers note that all revenue generated through beer sales goes back into staging the event, including tents, entertainment, food and staging costs.

More information and full entertainment schedules are available on the “Sidney Oktoberfest” Facebook page or visit sidneyoktoberfest.org.