MARYSVILLE – For many years the Marysville Kiwanis Club has lacked the big fundraiser other local service organizations have.

But not any longer.

The club is having its first Crabtoberfest from 6-9 p.m. Sept. 26 at the Marysville Opera House.

Club president Steve Powell said they have talked about such an event for a while, but this year finally decided to go for it.

“We want to raise more money to provide scholarships for graduating Marysville students,” Powell said. “We especially want to help those who are underserved and those who do a lot of community service, which is what we are all about.”

Club member Doug Buell took the lead on the effort after making connections with a crab provider.

The event is all-you-can-eat Alaskan king crab. Dinner also will include pasta, garlic bread, cole slaw and more, along with beverages of coffee, tea, water and pop. Beer and wine also will be available for purchase. Beer mugs with the first unique Crabtoberfest logo will be sold.

The event promises to have an Octoberfest feel, like something that would happen in Leavenworth. Buell encourages participants to wear their favorite Bavarian hat and clothes. Music and dancing in that same style are planned.

Door prizes, a silent auction, Crab Cash drawings and a dessert dash also are planned.

The classic rock band Aardvarks United will perform during the second half of the event.

Tickets are $50 in advance or $65 after Sept. 12 and at the door, if there are any available.

They can be purchased online at www.marysvillekiwanisclub.org, at The Marysville Globe office or from any Kiwanis member.