PEORIA ( 25News Now ) - Large crowds joined the German American Central Society along Peoria’s Riverfront this weekend to raise their glasses in celebration of Oktoberfest.

Oktoberfest is said to be the world’s longest running wedding celebration, starting with a royal German wedding in October of 1810.

Thousands celebrated the culture by eating German food, listening to music, and learning about the rich German heritage in Central Illinois.

“A lot of our grandparents, great-grandparents came from Germany. We have a lot of members who are from Germany, and Oktoberfest is a great way to come learn about the heritage,” said Melissa Stewart, a spokesperson for the German American Central Society.

The society’s next event is a Schlachtfest and German American Day celebration on Sunday

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