Double the Fun: McKinley Park's Oktoberfest Celebration Pairs Community Cleanup with German-Inspired Fundraiser

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Mckinley Park · October 23, 2025

The McKinley Community Play Garden will host a unique two-part event on Saturday, October 18, with the Oktoberfest Community Cleanup from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., followed immediately by the garden's annual Oktoberfest fundraiser. The cleanup is being produced by the Trash People of McKinley Park, a local volunteer group committed to maintaining the neighborhood's beauty.

The Oktoberfest celebration, running from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at 3518 S. Wolcott Ave., will honor founder Katie Flores and feature a silent auction, raffle, drinks, and food. This annual fundraiser offers local beer and wine alongside opportunities to connect with neighbors while supporting a valuable community space. The McKinley Community Play Garden, located just south of the McKinley Park Library, is a nature playspace open to the public and maintained by community volunteers. The space serves as a green oasis in the neighborhood and is available for private parties and events throughout the year.

For more information and to sign up for the community cleanup portion of the event, residents can visit the Trash People of McKinley Park's Eventbrite page. Community members are encouraged to participate in either or both parts of this neighborhood celebration that combines environmental stewardship with festive community building.

Sources:
1. https://mckinleypark.news/events/featured-events/event/26737-oktoberfest-community-cleanup
2. https://mckinleypark.news/events/full-calendar/event/26562-oktoberfest
3. https://mckinleypark.news/events/showcase-events/event/23311-oktoberfest
4. https://www.facebook.com/mckinleycommunityplaygarden