Island Lake’s Oktoberfest returns this weekend, bringing authentic German food, traditional music and, of course, the famed Dachshund Derby to Water Tower Park.

According to a news release from the village, purebred “doxies” of all types and colors will compete for the racing crown at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28.

The festival will be from 5 to 11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26; noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27; and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, at Water Tower Park, 429 W. State Road.

In addition to the Dachshund Derby, Oktoberfest will feature authentic German music, food, beer and contests.

Enjoy German food such as bratwurst, schnitzel sandwiches, Rouladen plates, Leberkase and more. The beers on tap include Hacker Pschorr Oktoberfest, Hofbrau Oktoberfest, Paulaner Festbier and more. Stein-hoisting competitions are set for Friday and Saturday, while a pie-eating contest is Sunday.

The band Phenix returns to the festival this year, performing from 7 to 11 p.m. Friday and again from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday. The Dirndolls, who are new to the festival, will take the stage from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday.

Proceeds from the festival support village events. For more information, go to villageofislandlake.com.