OKTOBERFEST DELIGHT

We all know about Oktoberfest, the annual celebration and kickoff to fall for many around the world. While most think of the festival as parades, beer, and German celebrations, it’s more than just a fun social event. Oktoberfest originated in Munich, Germany in 1810 as a celebration for the royal wedding of Bavarian Crown Ludwig and Princess Therese. This celebration, later named as “Theresienwiese”, was held on the fields in front of the city gates. Theresienwiese loosely translates to Threses’s Meadow, which is where the location of Oktoberfest was held. The celebration was so successful that they continued to hold it every year, eventually spreading worldwide. 

GABI HENRIQUEZ AT THE AMANA COLONIES PUMPKIN PATCH; PHOTO BY LILYAN JANECEK

One of the most popular examples of modern Oktoberfest in the world is the one held in our very own Amana Colonies. The event will start on Friday, October 2nd, and will last the whole weekend, ending on Sunday, the 5th. What makes this year extra special is the fact that this is the 60th annual celebration of the Amana Colonies Oktoberfest. This year's jam-packed schedule is full of fun traditional German festivities, including a yodeling contest, polka, the annual parade, beer samplings, and many German bands. The celebration is a symbol of our German heritage and our traditions in Amana today. However, it’s important to remember that despite the wonderful festivities, you still need to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. In past years, there have been people who are not in the right frame of mind during the festival, meaning they may not be the safest to be around. This is why staying safe should stay a top priority.