Meet the Makers – German Fest Blog October 2025
Meet the Makers: The Families Behind German Fest in Roberts Cove
AcadiaParish.com | October 2025
Each fall, just as the summer heat fades and the first hints of crisp October air arrive, the small village of Roberts Cove, Louisiana, transforms into a celebration of heritage, family, and faith. The Roberts Cove German Fest—set for October 4-5, 2025—is more than just a weekend of beer and brats. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the German-Catholic immigrants who made this slice of Acadia Parish their home nearly 140 years ago. And behind it all are the descendants of those very families—working year-round to make German Fest an unforgettable experience.
A Village Built on Faith and Family
Roberts Cove was established in the 1880s by German Catholic immigrants seeking religious freedom. Despite early challenges—including language barriers and government restrictions during World War I—the community remained deeply connected to its heritage. Today, that legacy is proudly preserved by the German Heritage Museum and celebrated every year at German Fest.
“When you walk the festival grounds, you’re not just experiencing German culture—you’re seeing the legacy of our ancestors who built this community with faith and hard work,” says [Erika Zaunbrecher], one of many local descendants helping to organize the festival.
The Hands and Hearts Behind the Fest
From handcrafted German sausage and stein-holding contests to authentic folk dancing and traditional music, nearly every aspect of German Fest is locally made and managed by families who trace their roots directly back to the original settlers.
“Each booth tells a story,” says Karl Leonards, whose family has been involved since the first German Fest in 1995. “The food we serve—like the apple strudel and the sausage—is made from old family recipes passed down for generations.”
Costumed volunteers—many in traditional dirndls and lederhosen—are often the great-grandchildren of the original immigrants. They dance, perform, and serve guests with a pride that’s palpable.
A Cultural Experience Like No Other
German Fest is family-friendly, with something for all ages: live polka music, heritage exhibits, genealogy stations, children’s activities, and even a Mass celebrated in German. The German Heritage Museum, open during the festival, is a must-see for visitors looking to dive deeper into the story of this tight-knit community.
“People are often surprised to find such a strong German presence in the heart of Cajun Country,” says Melinda Cramer, another member of the festival committee. “But when they visit, they see the love and labor that goes into keeping our traditions alive.”
Don’t Miss It
Whether you’re coming for the sausage, the music, or the heartwarming hospitality, German Fest in Roberts Cove is a uniquely Acadia Parish experience—where visitors become part of a living tradition. This year’s festival runs October 4–5, 2025, on the grounds of St. Leo IV Catholic Church in Roberts Cove.
Come hungry. Come curious. Come celebrate.
Learn more and plan your visit at AcadiaTourism.com
