ROCKtoberfest kicks off Friday Night!

A youth-friendly alternative to Sidney's Oktoberfest activities, ROCKtoberfest, hosted by Kids Plus, Inc., kicks off tonight.

"It is a pro-social event for kids to participate in," Cassie Challburg, Kids Plus director, said. "It has inflatables, free popcorn and candy, a huge Dozers Gaming trailer. Kids can be kids, away from the alcohol and while parents have fun, kids can have fun too."

The two-night event for youths in grades 7 through 12 continues through Saturday, from 7 to 11 p.m.

Last year, the event, in its 14th year, attracted more than 600 kids, Challburg said.

"They always look forw...