We cannot help but get excited when the past and the present are merged into a great event.

That’s what’s happening Saturday when the inaugural Oktoberfest takes place at the old Gossard building in downtown Ishpeming, which is definitely a treasure with links to the past.

Construction on the four-story Braastad-Gossard building started in 1888 on the corner of Cleveland and Second streets in Ishpeming. During its early years, it was a department store and the Gossard factory. It is now the home to a number of modern businesses along with housing the Ishpeming Historical Society.

Saturday, the public is invited to come to take a look at this beautiful building while shopping amongst more than two dozen vendors. The Ishpeming Historical Society will be providing tours during the Oktoberfest, which runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the first two floors of the building and part of the third floor.

Not only will the in-house businesses be participating, a variety of vendors will be taking part in the day. Smokehouse Glenn will be there as well.

In addition, Boy Scouts of America Troop 360 will be having a popcorn fundraiser.

And then outside, Senors Food Truck will be parked for those who want to buy something to eat right on site.

It’s tough to think of this in early October, but this event might be a good chance to get started on Christmas shopping. After all, snowflakes are predicted to come this way over the weekend and spending money locally is a great boost to our area’s economy at any time of year.

We congratulate Sandra and Paul Arsenault, the owners of the building, not only for planning a fun event, but for showing such commitment in keeping this historical place an active part of the Ishpeming business community.

And we thank all who are involved in planning this inaugural Oktoberfest. We have the feeling it’s going to become an Ishpeming tradition.