Celebrations at the Frankenmuth Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest began in Germany over 200 years ago, originally to celebrate the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig. Since then, it has become an annual tradition in Germany with over 5 million visitors.
If a visit to Germany for Oktoberfest isn’t in the cards, you should consider a visit to Frankenmuth – Michigan’s “Little Bavaria” – this weekend for their annual Oktoberfest celebration. The Frankenmuth Oktoberfest began in 1990, to honor the fall of the Berlin Wall in Germany. In 1996, the event was given an official blessing by the city of Munich, the first city given that distinction. Germany’s Hofbraeuhaus Brewery shipped its beer to Frankenmuth for their 1997 celebration, the first time it had been shipped outside of the country.
Oktoberfest Dancing
Whether you come from German heritage, or you want to be German for the weekend, you will have a great time at this year’s Frankenmuth festival, taking place September 15-18th in Heritage Park. Sample delicious German food, and dance to authentic German music. Saturday’s Wiener Dog Race, where 50 to 100 Dachshunds attempt to race across the floor of the German beer hall is an event you won’t want to miss! Parking is free, and tickets are $8. If you visit on Sunday, entrance to the festival is free!
Frankenmuth Oktoberfest
The festival also includes 2 parades, a midway with rides and games, and plenty of ice-cold beer! While in town, visit some of the local German-inspired shops, and Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, the largest Christmas store in the world!
Have you been to the Frankenmuth Oktoberfest celebration? What did you enjoy the most?
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Thought you might want to head up for this over this coming weekend and meet up with Denise. MB
Although originating in Germany, many Americans are of German ancestry and what better way to celebrate part of our heritage than go to an Oktoberfest in the fall.
Frankenmuth is a wonderful “Bavarian” community with delicous chicken dinners and more! The German dancers are a “must-see” while you sample the German beer.
It’s all very much fun, fun, fun – PROST!
If you’re heading up to Frankenmuth for the festival this weekend, make sure to stop at Frankenmuth Brewery for a tour and try their Oktoberfest! It’s one of my favorites, especially this time of year.
yeah I went to Frankenmuth Brewery for the first time this summer with my dad.. he’s way into craft beers. Great atmosphere, even better beer… gotta get back up there to try their oktoberfest!
PS- frankenmuthbrewery.com
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