Oktoberfest events celebrate tradition
The first Oktoberfest, in October 1810, was a five-day celebration of the Bavarian crown prince’s marriage. In subsequent years, the festival grew and became an annual event. The starting dates were moved into September, because the longer days and warmer weather allowed festival guests to stay out later. And now, it is time again for Oktoberfest events. Here are some to enjoy, not too far away:
Castle Rock Oktoberfest
Castle Rock celebrates Oktoberfest in Wilcox Square on Saturday, September 21 from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., with traditional German music, food trucks, live bands, vendor booths and more than 14 breweries to try. For more information, visit www.downtowncastlerock.com/oktoberfest. (See ad in E Guide on page 4).
Castle Rock Oktoberfest on Wilcox Street.
Highlands Ranch Oktoberfest 5K and celebration
Highlands Ranch celebrates Oktoberfest in Town Center South on Saturday, September 14, with a 5K run/walk from 9 a.m. to noon, followed by the Oktoberfest celebration from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy German food, music, balloons, face painters, games, the Annual Dachshund Races and more. For more information, visit hrcaonline.org and search “Oktoberfest.”
Lone Tree Craftoberfest
The City of Lone Tree Craftoberfest is at Schweiger Ranch on Saturday, October 5 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. This event celebrates Coloradans’ love of craft beer and features beer sampling from Colorado breweries, tasty German and American food, live music and more. For more information, visit schweigerranch.org/event/lone-tree-craftoberfest/.
Denver Oktoberfest
Denver’s two-weekend Oktoberfest celebration is September 20-22 and September 27-29, in the Ballpark District at Larimer and 21st Streets. The fun includes competitive stein hoisting, the long dog derby, keg bowling, a costume contest and live music. For more information, visit thedenveroktoberfest.com.
Beer stein hoisting contest during the Denver Oktoberfest.
The Great American Beer Festival, Denver
While not officially an “Oktoberfest,” the Great American Beer Festival is billed as the largest beer festival in the U.S. The festival is October 10-12 at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver. This is a public tasting event and professional competition. There is also entertainment, ranging from pop-up surprises like flash mobs to marching bands and oompah bands. For more information, visit www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com.
Douglas County Libraries (DCL) Brew Tour
The DCL 2024 Brew Tour runs through September 30. Log visits to each participating Douglas County partner brewery and coffee shop to gather points, unlock rewards, and earn entries into the grand prize drawing. For more information and to register, visit dcl.org/brew-tour/. (See ad in E Guide on page 6).
By Susan Helton; courtesy photos
