The 43rd Annual "Oompahfest" and Park Concert will be held on Sunday, Sept. 17 at the Plattdeutsche Park, located at 1132 Hemsptead Turnpike, Franklin Square, only 20 minutes from Manhattan off the Cross Island Parkway.

This annual German-American celebration has grown from a small street festival in 1959 into an internationally noted festival, attracting thousands of local and international visitors.

The "Oompahfest" will feature live entertainment by visiting bands from Germany and America. The bands and groups will consist of a variety of different German cultures, each one dressed in authentic traditional uniforms and costumes representing their hometown regions.

Real German "Gemutlichkeit" prevails at this Oktoberfest-style festival in Franklin Square. Oompah-bands, traditional-costumed dancers and, of course, German beer combine to create the flavor of this European culture fest.

There will also be food. Every German specialty from Bratwurst, knockwurst, veal schnitzel, sauerkraut, potato pancakes, pretzels, and home-made pies. Enjoy the many vendors offering imported souvenirs, gifts and German alpine clothing.

The entrance gates are open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Admission is $7.50 for adults and children under 12 free.