“Beermistress Sadie” helps serve up a special Black Forest brew at the 2011 event.

The Franco-American Heritage Center will present its second annual Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 6 beginning at 6 p.m. in the Center’s Heritage Hall. This is a special pre-season celebration in anticipation of the Center’s 2012-2013 season launch, taking place October 20 with the annual Gala and Benefit Concert.

The ceremonial first pour of beer will officially open the event. A special Black Forest beer will be poured by “beermeisters” and served to patrons at tables throughout the venue, converted to resemble a traditional German beer hall. In addition to the special tap beer being served for the occasion, the Center’s full bar will also be open. Heritage Hall will open its doors at 5:30 p.m.

The Franco Center will serve a buffet-style Bavarian dinner starting with an appetizer of red cabbage seasoned with hardwood-smoked bacon and served with bratwurst and sweet-and-sour sauce. Following the appetizer, Bavarian-style leeks with potatoes and pork stew in red wine with carrots and onion will be served. The meal will finish with a Black Forest cake.

Before, during, and after the meal, all will be welcome to dance to the lively tunes of the Downeast German Band. DJs Marcel Gagne and Peter Carrier will ensure the frivolity of the evening with their music and humor.

This is a 21-plus event, and tickets are $25 per person in advance. Tickets can be purchased via the Box Office Phone Line  at (207) 689-2000, online at francocenter.org, or in person at the Franco Center Box Office, now open from noon to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.