An Oktoberfest with several creative twists is coming to the Dutchess County Fairgrounds, in Rhinebeck, the weekend of October 5 and 6. This will be the first time the centuries-old and well-traversed fairgrounds have hosted an Oktoberfest, and according to producer Quail Hollow Events, this one has a lot more to offer than beer guzzling and polka dancing.

Set for 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, this Oktoberfest is centered around the concept of “handmade.” Oktoberfest at Rhinebeck: A Family Harvest Celebration will bring together a variety of attractions, all of them handcrafted in some fashion—from Hudson Valley-made beer, wine and spirits, to one-of-kind goods by nationally known artisans, to seasonal grub and an abundance of harvest activities.

The festival will offer a curated collection of handmade goods and a diverse selection of autumnal extras: horse-drawn carriage rides; a pumpkin competition (including a pumpkin weighing more than 1,000 pounds); ongoing craft demonstrations (fiber spinning, woodworking, Chinese brush painting and more); fine art pumpkin carving by a nationally celebrated master of the craft; live music; a petting zoo; and an extensive children’s area. Parents can sip on craft beverages, try Germanic-inspired cuisine and dance to live entertainment while the kids enjoy an agri-venture exhibit and a supervised drop-off arts and crafts center.

The event will be held rain or shine. Parking is free.

Location: Dutchess County Fairgrounds,  6636 US-9, Rhinebeck, NY. For more info, visit QuailHollow.com.