Any successful event more times than not needs a slew of volunteers to make it go.

With that in mind, this year’s 50^el annual La Mesa Oktoberfest is no different. Given the contributions of the volunteers, this popular event runs much more smoothly.

We caught up recently with Laurel McFarlane, president of McFarlane Promotions, the event’s organizer. McFarlane noted the importance of volunteers and how their contributions and more make a big difference.

La Mesa Courier: Approximately how many volunteers will be helping with this year’s La Mesa Oktoberfest and what are some of the jobs they will have for the event?

McFarlane: In total, we have about 40 volunteers for the La Mesa Oktoberfest. They will be assisting in the set-up of the event, overseeing parts of the event like the Dachshund Races, the Glucklich Games, information booth assistance, and VIP check-in.

LMC: Are most of the volunteers from the La Mesa area? Do you get volunteers from throughout San Diego wanting to help with this event each year?

McFarlane: While most of the volunteers come from East County, we do receive inquiries from people all around San Diego expressing interesting in volunteering at the La Mesa Oktoberfest. Especially for areas such as the Dachshund Races; they’re a big hit!

LMC: How important are volunteers to making such an event like this not only take place but run as smoothly as possible?

McFarlane: Volunteers are a vital facet in making the La Mesa Oktoberfest possible. We have amazing individuals who help in various areas within the festival like the Dachshund Races, the Kinder Karneval, the Glucklich Games, etc. All areas that are FREE to the public. We aim to provide free, interactive areas that are fun for all ages and volunteers are critical to help not only run the areas, but also keep it free for the community to come out and enjoy it. Apart from that, it’s a wonderful opportunity for us to provide fundraising opportunities to partner opportunities like Boy Scouts and Kwana’s.

LMC: What advice do you and your Oktoberfest officials give the volunteers before the event happens?

McFarlane: Above all else, we remind the volunteers to enjoy themselves at this event and have fun! We always make sure to remind them to be courteous and kind to all guests and if there is ever any question, to not hesitate to just ask one us! We look to support our volunteers as much as possible. And, of course, we always give them a friendly reminder to keep hydrated, wear sunscreen, and help themselves to the water and snacks we provide in the volunteer area.

LMC: What is it like working with all these volunteers on such a big event for the La Mesa community?

McFarlane: In short, it’s nice. It is truly something special to each year be able to work with an amazing group of self-less individuals who are here to cultivate a sense of community. That’s what this event is all about, and has been since its origination 50 years ago. The La Mesa Oktoberfest is all about community building in La Mesa and that is achieved in part with the amazing volunteers. It is truly something special.

Photos courtesy of McFarlane Promotions