Get ready to tap that keg: Volksfest returns to Evansville this week. Here's what to know.

EVANSVILLE ? Volksfest, Germania M?nnerchor’s annual summer German celebration, is back starting Thursday.

In its 62nd year, the event runs from Thursday through Saturday at 916 N. Fulton Ave.

Following tradition, opening ceremonies and the traditional tapping of the first keg will be at 6 p.m. Thursday under the beer garden tent. In addition, Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon will feature a "Kids Corner" with free food, backpacks, games, fire trucks and other activities for children 12 and under.

Here's what you need to know about the 2024 festival.

What is Volkfest?

Volkfest is a celebration of German heritage and culture with authentic food, drinks, music, and activities. Throughout the weekend, one ton of brats, 15,000 Kraut balls, and over a thousand pounds of knuckles and potatoes will be eaten.

What is on the menu?

The menu includes bratwurst, pig knuckles, mashed potatoes, kraut balls, potato salad and other items. Plates will be sold starting at 11 a.m. and are $14 each.

Alphorn players, left to right, Mark Steffenhagen, Charles Haas and Dan Schultz play at the keg-tapping kick-off for the 2019 Volksfest kicks-off at the Germania Maennerchor Thursday evening. August 1, 2019.
Alphorn players, left to right, Mark Steffenhagen, Charles Haas and Dan Schultz play at the keg-tapping kick-off for the 2019 Volksfest kicks-off at the Germania Maennerchor Thursday evening. August 1, 2019.

How much will everything cost?

Admission is free for all ages until 2 p.m. and after 4 p.m., is $5 for those 21 and up. Attendees should bring two forms of ID.

Will there be a half-pot? Where can I purchase tickets?

Yes, this event will feature nightly half-pots. Drawings happen each night at 8 p.m. and will be posted on Germania's Facebook page. Tickets are $5 each, three for $10 or seven for $20.

What's new this year?

The German club will feature local bands playing under the tent each night from 8 to 11 p.m. Thursday will feature Troy Henning, Haywire on Friday, and Retro Shock on Saturday. There will also be performances from traditional German bands Cincinnati Schnapps, Rhein Valley Brass and The Rathskeller Band.

More information can be found online at www.evvgermanclub.com.

This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Volksfest is this weekend in Evansville, Indiana