You could take time off work, spend thousands of dollars and fly to Munich, Germany to attend Oktoberfest this year.

Or, you could get your fill of beer and food in downtown Oxford’s Centennial Park when “Oxtoberfest” happens on Saturday, Sept. 21 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The event is being organized by Holy Cross Lutheran Church.

“My hope, simply, is to have a family-friendly, community event that (offers) samples (of) everything Oxford has to offer,” said Rev. Matt Schuler, the church’s pastor since June 2015.

Oxtoberfest will feature beers produced by Oxford’s two craft breweries, HomeGrown Brewing Co. and Gravel Capital Brewing, as well as food prepared by local restaurants.

The tagline for the event is “Taste and See: Oxford is Good.”

Schuler believes Oxford is “a phenomenal community” and he hopes this event will give it a “boost” by encouraging folks to visit the breweries and restaurants after enjoying some suds and grub in the park.

Beer and food tickets will be sold for $5 each. Each ticket will entitle the holder to one beer or one small-plate food item.

Net proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Love In the Name of Christ (Love INC) of North Oakland County.

Launched in 2007, the organization operates a clearinghouse, or call center, that serves as a contact point for people in need. Love INC assists with rent and utility bills, car repairs, minor home repairs, food, clothing, counseling, budget classes, household goods, personal needs and more.

Oxtoberfest will also feature live music, fun snacks and family activities.

“We’re going to have snow cone machines (and) popcorn. We’re looking at (having) bounce houses,” Schuler said.

Given Oxtoberfest is a first-year event, Schuler told council he’s unsure how many people will attend. As of Tuesday afternoon, the event’s Facebook page showed 51 people as “going” and 1,183 people as “interested.”

Sponsors for Oxtoberfest include Curtis Insurance Agency, Thrivent Financial and Apothecary and Co. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Breweries and restaurants will be paid for the beverages and food they provide, so sponsors are needed to help cover those costs.

For more information, contact Schuler via email at info@holycrossoxford.com or call (248) 274-4676.