The La Crosse Police Department, together with our community partners, have been preparing for the 2015 Oktoberfest for many months to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for all. Recently, we have been reaching out to different members of our community to provide some recommendations for best practices during this city-wide event. We have met with local organizations to finalize details for the 3rd Street Aid Station (located at the corner of 3rd and Pearl Streets); sent out letters to area landlords with tips regarding tenant communication; posted door hangers in the downtown and campus areas with reminders regarding safety and locals laws; reached out to parade participants; and much more.
Whether you’re a La Crosse resident, business owner, student, or visitor, you can help us achieve a fun and hassle-free fest! Just follow these tips:
- Have fun
- Follow the rules
- Be a courteous and good neighbor
- Be patient with people and traffic
- If you drink, do so responsibly
- Stay together with your friends
- Remember where you are staying and where you parked your car
- Have a fully charged cell phone
- Use the 3rd Street Aid Station for assistance – Subway lot at 3rd and Pearl Streets
- Report any vandalism you see
Please keep in mind, for your safety and that of all others:
- Don’t drink to the point of putting yourself or others in danger
- Don’t wander away from your friends
- Don’t do the things you wouldn’t do at home
- Don’t disregard 1st warnings from Law Enforcement
- Don’t ignore traffic signs and signals
- Don’t drink and drive
- Don’t host parties with underage patrons
The La Crosse Police Department will be utilizing special enforcement including foot, bike, Segway, and boat patrols. We will be assisted by the Wisconsin State Patrol, Sheriff’s Department, and officers from surrounding law enforcement organizations to ensure maximum safety of our entire City throughout the Oktoberfest weekend celebration. Our officers will be tolerant, but will not compromise when it comes to safety. As a reminder, consumption of alcohol on public streets and sidewalks is illegal. Officers will exercise their authority in warning, and if necessary, citing violators of this ordinance. Also remember, if you host a party with alcohol and allow underage patrons, you could be cited under the Social Host Ordinance and fined between $1,000 and $5,000.
Have a happy, safe, and enjoyable Oktoberfest!
La Crosse PD Newsroom 