As Oktoberfest approaches, police have reminders, like it’s still illegal to drink in streets

Social host ordinance fine up to $5,000 

A couple of warnings and some reminders from La Crosse police ahead of the upcoming Oktoberfest weekend.

Police say they will be “tolerant but will not compromise when it comes to safety” during fest.

Yes, drinking on the streets is still illegal but officers will exercise their authority to either warn or cite those who break the no drinking rule.

The department has a couple other reminders:

• Stay together with your friends.
• Remember where you are staying and where you parked your car.
• Have a fully charged cell phone.

The aid station will once again be in operation this year at the corner of 3rd and Pearl streets.

You can get information there, water, charge your phone, as well as medical and police assistance.

Oktoberfest events start Thursday night with the Torchlight parade.

Lastly, police say to keep in mind the fines for violating the social host ordinance: somewhere between $1,000-$5,000.