Wind weakens Oktoberfest turnout

Strong winds that ripped through Sidney Friday and Saturday affected Oktoberfest crowds.

“The turnout was not well,” Judy Harris said. “It was a little better than last year and we may have made just enough to break even.”

Last year an early season snowstorm forced the cancellation of outdoor events, including the parade. This time around those in charge of Oktoberfest were forced closed down the tent at 10:30 p.m. on Friday due to the wind. They could not reopen it on Saturday until 6 p.m., when the gusts finally subsided.

Vendors report that tent poles were swaying dangerously during the wor...