PDG Bob Hobaugh is the Chair for the 60th edition of Das Awkscht Fescht. Absolutely amazing how this is all done by volunteers and the history, not to mention it is self-funded and has always been profitable.
- What is Das Awkscht Fescht
1. Motor Vehicles, Celebration & Family
2. Macungie Memorial Park Regional Asset
- What Areas of Focus does the Fescht address?
1. Community & Economic Development
2. Maternal & Child Health
3. Peace & Conflict Prevention
- Rotarian Involvement
- In all 6 Phases
Click Das Awkscht Fescht Presentation then click I agree then download the presentation.
History of Das Awkscht Fescht I. Introduction.
Das Awkscht Fescht, known to English speakers as “The August Festival,” (the “Fescht”) is a three-day show of antique cars, trucks, motorcycles and tractors, with sales of antique toys, cars and automobilia. It is also a cultural event in Macungie Memorial Park (the “Park”) whose family-friendly aspects include a swimming pool, live music, food, beverages and crafts. The principal show day is the first Saturday in August, with the start day being the prior Friday and concluding on the following Sunday. The Fescht is influenced in name and flavor by the Pennsylvania German culture found in Macungie. It remains one of the largest antique and classic motor vehicle shows east of the Mississippi River.
The Fescht began in 1964 and ran continuously through 2019 until the COVID-19 pandemic caused organizers to hold over until 2021. Then it resumed with shouts of gratitude. The Fescht has been conducted in five phases through 2021. It had roots in prior agricultural and car shows for the benefit of the Park. Its history reflects the passion of the Macungie Memorial Park Association (the “Association”), the Ontelaunee Region (“Ontelaunee”) of the Antique Automobile Club of America (“AACA”), and thousands of volunteers. They all enjoy antique motor vehicles while raising money to maintain and operate the Park. This article is based on presentations given by Bob Hobaugh beginning in 2013. Bob gratefully acknowledges the historical information provided by Hon. Robert Young, David Bausch and others, and the records of the Macungie Historical Society.
Please read the History as the Macungie Memorial Park Association, a non-profit private activity – there are no tax dollars involved – was formed in 1944 to acquire and operate the Park. This evolution is an incredible example of community involvement from people all over the Lehigh Valley and East Coast.
Das Awkscht Fescht History The file is also in Downloads on our website.
Community Service opportunities: just reach out to Bob Hobaugh to volunteer.
- Field layout in advance
- Parking Friday through Sunday
- Distribute participate awards Saturday
- Distribute packets at registration tent
- Help preserve a regional treasure
