Friday, November 6, 2026
Blustery winds and frigid temperatures failed to dampen Baldwin’s festive spirit on Oct. 17, as dozens of bundled-up residents gathered at the Baldwin Community Garden to raise a stein at the Baldwin Civic Association’s eighth annual Oktoberfest.
The annual celebration featured craft beer tastings from South Shore Craft Brewery, Lunchbox Brewing Company, Blue Point Brewing Company, Barrier Brewing Co. and Jones Beach Brewing Co. No Good Burger Joint and the Irish Pub served up food for festivalgoers.
Guests enjoyed a variety of seasonal activities, including pumpkin painting, a mum sale, games and the event’s traditional stein-holding contest. Roughly 18 participants took part in the competition. The defending champion, who won last year’s contest, claimed another victory after holding his stein for eight minutes and 30 seconds.
This year, the celebration also welcomed new vendors, including local candle seller Euphoria Candles and photography business Ambiance 360. The company offered attendees free snapshots in front of an Oktoberfest-themed frame to promote its services.
Despite the chilly weather, the turnout reflected the community’s ongoing support for the annual tradition, said Samantha Cools, chair of the Baldwin Civic Association’s Fundraising Committee.
“I just love that despite the weather, despite anything, the community really comes out for these events,” Cools said. “I think these events in general are really important to create a real community feeling. It’s gotten better and better every year.”
