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Oktoberfest Features Authentic German Food, Drinks, Entertainment

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, October 6th 2025 at 14:57 GMT by Patch
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Havre de Grace Brings an Authentic Oktoberfest Experience to the Chesapeake Bay Region

For anyone who has ever dreamed of strolling through a Bavarian village without leaving Maryland, the 2024 Oktoberfest in Havre de Grace promises a slice of Germany right on the Chesapeake. Organized by the city’s tourism board in partnership with local businesses, the festival takes place at the scenic “Brewery & Bistro Park” on the banks of the Susquehanna River, and runs from Wednesday, September 19 through Sunday, September 23. Over five days, the town is transformed into a bustling German festival ground, complete with traditional food, craft brews, live music, and family‑friendly activities.

A Festival That Marries Heritage and Community

The event is a celebration of Havre de Grace’s German roots, and it leverages that heritage by featuring vendors, musicians, and culinary traditions that trace back to 19th‑century German immigrants who settled in the area. According to the city’s Tourism Office, “Oktoberfest is a perfect way for our community to showcase the diversity and warmth of our town while giving visitors a chance to experience German culture in a relaxed, down‑home setting.”

The festival’s layout follows a familiar Oktoberfest blueprint: a central stage for music and speeches, a parade of tents for food and beer, a children’s corner with rides and games, and a designated “Kids’ Zone” that encourages family participation. City officials have also incorporated health and safety guidelines from the state to ensure a secure experience for all attendees.

Authentic German Cuisine: More Than Just Pretzels

While pretzels and bratwurst are staples, the food lineup is far richer. Local farmers’ markets provide fresh produce that is used to create a wide array of German favorites:

• Bratwurst and Weisswurst – Hand‑crafted by the region’s own Havre de Grace Butcher Shop. The vendor promises the meat is sourced from pasture‑raised cattle and pigs, ensuring a fresh, lean product.

• Sausage Bar – Guests can choose from traditional Bratwurst, Bockwurst, and Weißwurst, served with mustard, sauerkraut, and a side of mashed potatoes.

• Rouladen – Thin slices of beef rolled with bacon, onions, and pickles, slow‑cooked to perfection.

• Sauerkraut and Red Cabbage – Fermented to the ideal tangy flavor that complements the hearty meats.

• German Pot Bread and Käsespätzle – Classic German noodles served with a cheese melt, echoing a typical roadside German diner.

• Schwarzwald Cake – A chocolate layered cake with a distinct “Black Forest” twist, complete with cherry compote and whipped cream.

A separate “Gastro‑Garden” showcases vegetarian options, such as a Kraut- and Spinach‑laden Linsenbällchen (lentil balls) and Grünkohl mit Mettwurst (kale with pork), proving that the festival embraces all dietary preferences.

A Beer Garden Like No Other

The beer scene at Havre de Grace Oktoberfest is a mainstay. The city has lined the festival grounds with tents from local breweries and regional favorites:

• Havre Brewing Co. – Serving its flagship “Havre Original” and a limited‑edition “Oktoberfest Ale” brewed with German hops.

• Lombard’s Brewery – A small‑batch brewery featuring a “Lombard Lager” and a “Helles” beer that pays homage to Munich.

• Mason’s Ale House – Provides a range of house ales, including a “St. Paul’s Oktoberfest” that blends a touch of vanilla and caramel.

Alongside the breweries, a Tap Room offers a tasting of German craft beers imported from Bavaria, including a “Dunkel” and a “Bock” style. The beer garden’s layout encourages mingling and has designated seating for families and larger groups. For guests with younger children, the “Kids’ Table” offers a selection of non‑alcoholic beverages such as fruit punch, lemonade, and a German‑style “Apfelschorle” (apple spritzer).

Live Entertainment: From Folk Music to Polka

Music is the heartbeat of any Oktoberfest, and the festival in Havre de Grace is no exception. A central stage hosts a rotating lineup of local and regional musicians:

• The Havre de Grace Polka Band – Known for their energetic polka sets, complete with fiddles and accordions.

• The Chesapeake Folk Ensemble – Offering acoustic renditions of traditional German lullabies and ballads.

• Guest Artists – From the Maryland State Opera to the local Bluegrass Band, the festival’s schedule showcases a variety of acoustic styles.

A dedicated “Kids’ Stage” features a puppet show, “Oktoberfest Adventure,” that teaches children about German customs, history, and the significance of Oktoberfest.

Family‑Friendly Activities and Community Spirit

The festival’s “Kids’ Zone” is packed with activities that cater to all ages:

• Bicycle Races – Mini‑bikes compete in a fun race around a small track. Winners receive miniature beer mugs (non‑alcoholic).

• Craft Stations – Hand-painted steins, making paper flowers, and creating German‑inspired collages.

• Children’s Parade – Children in traditional Bavarian costumes parade through the streets with handmade floats.

• Art Exhibits – Local artists showcase works inspired by German themes, such as landscapes, folklore, and the town’s historic ties.

An “Interactive Storytelling Corner” presents short stories about the German settlers in the region, giving visitors an engaging way to learn about local history.

Food Trucks, Food Stalls, and Vendor Diversity

Beyond the beer tents, a row of food trucks and stalls offers a wide variety of cuisine:

• Mexican‑style Tacos – Tacos de Puerco (pork) with German-style sauerkraut.

• Italian‑American Pizza – “Oktoberfest Pizza” topped with sausage and sweet peppers.

• Asian Fusion – “Sushi‑Wurst” – sushi rolls wrapped around smoked sausage.

• Dessert Carousel – Includes German pretzel donuts and apple strudel served with vanilla sauce.

Each vendor is carefully selected to complement the festival’s theme and support local small businesses, making the event a showcase for the region’s culinary diversity.

Logistics, Health, and Sustainability

City officials emphasize that the festival adheres to Maryland’s public‑health guidelines. Food vendors must show valid health permits, and all stalls are equipped with hand‑washing stations. For safety, a “Volunteer Medical Crew” is on standby throughout the festival. Additionally, the city is committed to a zero‑waste policy, encouraging guests to bring reusable cups and containers.

Transportation and parking information is available on the city’s website. The festival encourages use of public transportation and carpooling. A “Bike‑to‑Festival” program will provide secure bike parking and a free shuttle to nearby parks.

Ticketing and Costs

Tickets can be purchased online via the city’s official Oktoberfest page, or on-site at the “Main Gate.” Prices are tiered:

• General Admission – $12 per adult, $8 for seniors (65+), $6 for children (ages 5–12).

• VIP Package – $30 per adult, includes priority entry, a complimentary beer, and a free “Oktoberfest Souvenir” (stein, hat, or scarf).

Group rates and family packages are also available, encouraging community participation.

Why You Should Attend

The 2024 Havre de Grace Oktoberfest offers a unique blend of cultural authenticity, local charm, and family‑friendly entertainment. Whether you’re a foodie looking to indulge in German specialties, a beer lover craving a taste of Bavarian brews, or a family searching for a memorable outing, this festival provides a welcoming atmosphere for all. By celebrating the town’s German heritage and supporting local businesses, the festival fosters a sense of community and shared joy that resonates long after the last pretzel is finished.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the “Best of Germany, Made in Maryland.” Mark your calendar, bring your friends and family, and prepare to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of an authentic Oktoberfest right on the banks of the Susquehanna River.