Oktoberfest: New Format Will Help Rejuvenate Annual Event.

Jim Hassenmayer, owner of the Orange Ale House, grew up in Milford before settling in Orange. He was raised in a family that believes in community service and remains faithful to his childhood stomping grounds and is well known in his new hometown for the various charitable services he provides.

This weekend, Hassenmayer is working at the Milford Oktoberfest, where he is the official beer sponsor.

Traditionally held at Walnut Beach, the festival has a new venue this year, which is more centrally located and possibly more affordable for families struggling in a challenging economy, according to Hassenmayer. Children under 16 admitted free.

"Instead of a flat $40 admission, the tickets are $10 this year, and we are bringing in popular food vendors, so our guests will have a choice of what they want to eat."

The Food Trucks include Firedog, owned by Woodbridge Firefighter Russ Arpaia, Vazzy's and , which you can find in the Sports Authority parking lot in Milford just before the Orange Town Line. These were chosen to offer festival-goers a variety of food to satisfy every tastebud.

Hassenmayer said a Kettle Corn vendor also will be on site.

The Orange Ale House is sponsoring the Beer Garden with a variety of everyone's favorite brew.

"Blue Point Brewery will have a beer tasting and display," Hassenmayer said.

In keeping with the Oktoberfest tradition, there will be German Dancers performing throughout the day.

In addition to DJ music, four of the most popular live bands have been booked to play: Total Hacks, The Elwoods, Hit List and FreePlay.

A moonbounce will be set up to keep children entertained.

"This is going to be a big party," Hassenmayer said. "It runs from 1 to 10 p.m. We welcome everyone to attend. It's a good time."