Break out your beer stein and head to Our Lady of the Lake for Oktoberfest! Enjoy all things German—food, music, wine and beer, plus an enormous 50/50 raffle. If you prefer a more family-oriented festival, try Kinderfest, an Octoberfest for children and families, also at Our Lady of the Lake.

Other events in our area this weekend include a one-woman play about Louisa May Alcott at the West Caldwell Library, a ballroom dance social in Caldwell, and the Annual Pumpkin/Apple Sale at the Cedar Grove Historical Society. Read on for details of these events and others.

Our Lady of the Lake to Host 2nd Annual Oktoberfest

Where/When: Our Lady of the Lake, 32 Lakeside Ave., Verona; Saturday from 6 to 11 p.m.

Why Go? Last year’s event was so much fun, it had to be repeated! The evening’s festivities include traditional German music and live performances by Verona’s own Alotta Colada, and Liz Wojtal and Next of Kin; German and local food; a tricky tray, and, of course, beer and wine. New this year is Gewaltig Fünfzig-Fünfzig (“Enormous 50/50”), with 6,000 tickets sold!  Three winners will be chosen to split the prize money.

Pricing: $60 per person in advance, tickets available online. $75 the door.

Our Lady of the Lake Announces Kinderfest

Where/When: Our Lady of the Lake, 32 Lakeside Ave., Verona, Friday from 4 to 9 p.m.

Why Go? The kids need their own version of the Oktoberfest! Family-friendly and alcohol-free, Kinderfest features strolling entertainment, including a magician, stilt walker, and juggler, as well as local live bands.  Music Together will lead the little ones in song and dance. Other attractions include a Moon bounce, 8-foot dunk tank, baseball speed pitch, high striker, giant inflatable slide, as well as traditional carnival games.

Pricing: Admission is free; tickets for games and attractions will be for sale

"A Visit With Louisa May Alcott"

Where/When: West Caldwell Public Library, 30 Clinton Road, West Caldwell; Sunday at 2 p.m.

Why Go? Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Caldwell-West Essex, this one-woman play stars Pat Jordan of the American Historical Theatre. The play tells of Louisa’s struggles as a nurse during the American Civil War, her tireless work for social reform, and her success as a writer, including her classic novel Little Women.

Pricing: Free and open to the public, but advance registration is required.

Ballroom Dance Social

Where/When: DanceSport4You, 31 Westville Ave., Caldwell; Saturday at 8 p.m.

Why Go? Are you a fan of ballroom dance? Looking for a place to kick up you heels? Look no further—DanceSport4You hosts Saturday night socials at the former Women’s Club of Caldwell. Bring a partner or come alone and meet one!

Pricing: $18 includes refreshments

Cedar Grove Historical Society Annual Pumpkin/Apple Sale

Where/When: Cedar Grove Historical Society—Morgan Farm and Museum, 903 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove; Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Why Go? Pose for a photo with the scarecrow, purchase apples, cornstalks, or pumpkins, some of which were grown right on Morgan’s Farm. Go home with yummies from the bake sale. Also for sale will be Cedar Grove birdhouses and books.

Pricing: Admission is free.

Free Candlelight Restorative Yoga

Where/When: Verona Yoga and Wellness Center, 546 Bloomfield Ave., Verona; Sunday at 7 p.m.

Why Go? Relax, let go and restore. During an hour of candlelit relaxation postures, soft music plays while essential oils and scented eye pillows help you unwind. Start a new week refreshed and relaxed.

Pricing: FREE. Donations are accepted for a different worthy cause each month.  

Blessing of the Animals

Where/When: The First Congregational Church of Verona, 19 Church St, Verona; Sunday at 10 a.m.

Why Go? Bring your well-behaved pet, or a stuffed animal or photo of a loved companion for a blessing during the service on Sunday. Stay on for coffee and treats following the service!

Pricing: FREE