History of the German-American Festival

The German-American Festival (G.A.F.) was founded in 1966 by seven local German and Swiss societies: American Turners Toledo, Bavarian Benevolent Society, Bavarian Sports Club, Greater Beneficial Union, Teutonia Männerchor, Toledo Schwaben Verein, and United Swiss.

​

The first festival was held that same year at Raceway Park in Toledo, quickly becoming the city's first large-scale ethnic event.

Following its initial success, the G.A.F. Society incorporated as a non-profit in 1967, acquiring a permanent home at Oak Shade Grove in Oregon, Ohio, where the festival continues today.

This 75-acre property, originally purchased in 1969, has been expanded and developed by dedicated volunteers over the decades.

​

With deep cultural roots and a commitment to community, the G.A.F. has grown into one of the largest and most beloved ethnic festivals in the region.