2024 Special Fester – Quincy Sykes
Meet 2024 Oktoberfest Special Fester Quincy Sykes
- 7th grader, Longfellow Middle School, La Crosse
- Parents: Alicia Sykes, mom; Andrew Sykes, dad; Brenna Sykes, stepmom
- Siblings: Anika, Hunter, Sophia
- Favorite things about school: Favorite subject is music; enjoys being with people
- Favorite Oktoberfest events: Parades, carnival, brats
- Favorite things: Pizza, bubbles, basketball, camping, yellow lab, river, outdoors
Article by Brad Quarberg, 2016 Maple Leaf Parade Marshal
Longfellow Middle School 7th grader Quincy Sykes likes the parades and carnival at Oktoberfest. But this year he will not only enjoy them, he will also be involved in them and many other fest events as the 2024 Oktoberfest Special Fester.
Since Quincy is non-verbal, those around him were the ones who uttered excitement when finding out he was named to this year’s Royal Family.
Stepmom Brenna Sykes fielded the call from the committee who selected Quincy while at work. She had nominated him, but Brenna was still surprised and excited when she heard of his selection.
Brenna quickly shared the news with Quincy’s mom, Alicia Sykes, and other family members. Alicia was “elated” that her son would get the opportunity of a lifetime to experience Oktoberfest in a unique way.
Quincy isn’t new to Oktoberfest. For years, he has enjoyed attending the Maple Leaf and Torchlight parades. This year he will have a unique view of the two when he rides the parades in his own unit.
During Oktoberfest, Quincy also enjoys camaraderie with family — along with getting an opportunity to eat bratwurst.
In his new role, Quincy will revel in meeting and being with the 2024 Oktoberfest Royal Family. With his favorite subject being music, he will enjoy the polkas and folk tunes played, along with the singing and the dancing during the family’s appearances.
“Quincy has not only a heart of gold but, a smile to match it,” says Brenna Sykes. “Quincy is the light of any room and loves to be around lots of people to dance. We look forward to watching him experience new things and expanding his boundaries.”
While it is sometimes hard for him to communicate verbally, Quincy, who has Down Syndrome, is known for always finding a way to get his point across. He enjoys being around his classmates and meeting new people.
Some of the staff at school, current and past, who help him daily include Christie Hogan, Kai Maynard, Nina Maxim, Drew Horton, Alyson Islam, Margie Becker and Jane Fitzpatrick. They help with “everything,” says Brenna Sykes, including learning new life skills that help him become more independent.
Others who help Quincy include Scott Buschman, a La Crosse County social worker, Amber Johnson, Jenni Dwyer, friends and family. Aptiv programming and the UW-La Crosse Motor Development Program also assist.
Quincy’s favorite colors are, appropriately for the fall festival, red and orange. Among his other favorites: pizza, bubbles, basketball, camping and the family’s yellow lab. He’s especially partial to the river and being outdoors.
Oktoberfest has named a Special Fester since 1989. The honor goes to a young person between 9 and 21 with a special need or disability. Their duties as part of the Oktoberfest Royal Family include appearances at Oktoberfest functions and parades. Students attending any La Crosse area school are eligible. Nominations are accepted at oktoberfestusa.com.
Former Special Festers
| Year | Special Fester |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Tori Campbell |
| 2022 | Liam Caulkins |
| 2021 | Rylee Beahm |
| 2019-2020 | Danielle Lass |
| 2018 | Mackenzie Peterson |
| 2017 | Keaton Hall |
| 2016 | Gunner Skroch |
| 2015 | Brianne Cooper |
| 2014 | Makayla Olson |
| 2013 | Conner Ellis |
| 2012 | Erik O'Brien |
| 2011 | Sydney Fitzpatrick |
| 2010 | Jonah Cowgill |
| 2009 | Brevin Terpstra |
| 2008 | Alysha Klatt |
| 2007 | Danny Alderman |
| 2006 | Emily Limbach |
| 2005 | Mitch Kaiser |
| 2004 | Cassie Strand |
| 2003 | Keith Stachowitz |
| 2002 | Andrew Fruit |
| 2001 | Teri Gerlach* |
| 2000 | Katie Kane |
| 1999 | Jareau Ammann |
| 1998 | Thea Aspenson |
| 1997 | Molly Mulrennan |
| 1996 | Devon Sprain |
| 1995 | Patrick Molzahn |
| 1994 | Ashley Adams |
| 1993 | Amanda Hundt* |
| 1992 | Brad Swinghammer |
| 1991 | Jamie Williams |
| 1990 | Jill Bakalars |
| 1989 | Miranda Roberts |
Special Fester Nomination
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Special Fester.
Click here to complete the nomination form.
Email [email protected] with any questions or concerns.
Donna Guepfer Special Fester Fund Grant Application
Donna Guepfer Special Fester Fund Grant applicants must demonstrate a commitment to providing inclusive
and accessible care for children with physical or developmental disabilities. Proposals should outline specific
programs, resources, and training initiatives aimed at fostering an environment that supports the unique needs
of these children. Additionally, emphasis should be placed on promoting inclusivity, enhancing educational
opportunities, and ensuring the well-being of both children and caregivers.
Click here to complete application. Email completed applications to [email protected].
Special Festers
