Rocktoberfest returns to Naples

Fall festivities will take over the Naples Causeway when the third annual Rocktoberfest brings live music, fireworks, tethered hot air balloon, food and family activities to the heart of the Lakes Region.

The free event will be held Saturday, Oct. 10, from 3 to 9 p.m. along the historic Naples Causeway. In the event of rain, visitors should check the Facebook page for an updated date.

Timed to coincide with Maine’s colorful fall season, Rocktoberfest will stretch from the east side to the west side of the Causeway between Long Lake and Brandy Pond. Visitors are encouraged to bring their wagons and shopping bags and even dress in their best lederhosen for an autumn evening overlooking the water.

Activities will include live music at multiple locations, artisans, demonstrations, amusements, interactive family activities and friendly competitions. Tethered illuminated hot air balloon rides will add to the evening atmosphere, while a fireworks display will light up the Causeway at dark.

Several Naples businesses and venues will join the celebration with entertainment, food and drink specials and other activities. Music will be a major part of the festival, with performances planned at the Union Stage, Causeway Amphitheatre and participating establishments.

Among the scheduled performers are Julia Gagnon Haven, C-Dot 416, Chase Jobe, Toby McAllister and Road Crew. Rigometrics will perform aboard the Songo River Queen II while it is docked at the Causeway. Other festivities will include outdoor biergartens, competitions, face painting and special menus. Captain Jack’s will serve as an official after-party location, with Road Crew scheduled to perform from 8 to 11 p.m.

The Songo River Queen II, Freedom Cafe, Beacon Bar & Bistro, Brother Flecker’s, Hamilton House, Sun Sports+ and Randy’s Wooster Street Pizza are among the locations participating in the celebration.

Rocktoberfest is designed as a communitywide celebration that combines the feel of an autumn festival and night market with the scenery that has made Naples a popular destination. With peak foliage season underway, organizers are inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy a sunset along the Causeway before staying for music, activities and fireworks.

The event is sponsored by Q-Team Tree Service, LRE Electric, Randy’s Wooster Street Pizza, Sun Sports+, The Barn Presents Music Heals, Captain Jack’s, the Town of Naples and the Naples Events Committee.

For information about participating, becoming a market vendor or sponsoring the event, email [email protected]. If you plan to go, RSVP on their official Facebook page to help vendors with their planning.