How to Celebrate Oktoberfest in Birmingham

Birmingham, Alabama is the site of several Oktoberfest celebrations during the months of September and October. Most of these events are private affairs with tickets being purchased in advance. Admission prices usually include a traditional German sit-down dinner in a quieter than normal setting. Other events are a bit more rowdy and much less formal, focusing, above all else, on the drinking aspect of Oktoberfest. The one location in Birmingham where the true traditional values of Oktoberfest are honored and celebrated is at the Freunde Deutscher Sprache und Kultur, the city's German Society. The FDSK's annual 2-day Oktoberfest celebration is a family-friendly event where locals can gather to celebrate the best in Bavarian foods, beers, wines, music and dancing.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Experience Oktoberfest Activities

1. Join the crowd in cheering on those participating in traditional Oktoberfest contests such as the Keg Barrel Race, the Beer Stein Hold, the Beer Stein Pour and Carry, the Beer Chug and the Bratwurst Eating Contest.

2. Enjoy a fine German meal of bratwurst, sauerkraut and potato pancakes while listening to Polka music.

3. Purchase a raffle ticket and have your name entered into a drawing for various prizes. Proceeds from the raffle are used to support various charities that the FDSK works with.

4. Celebrate with old friends and make new ones in the festive Biergarten where an array of Bavarian brews is served on tap. German wines and other beverages are also available on site.

5. Treat yourself to a Bavarian cream puff or an apple strudel made fresh daily on site.

6. Visit the FDSK Clubhouse and stop by the Alpine Gift Shop to purchase authentic German gift items and collectibles like souvenir beer steins.

7. Visit the main stage area and be entertained by popular musicians such as Lorelei & Schatzi and Wolfang Moritz. Celebrate the fine music of these talented artists while enjoying a stein of Bavarian beer.

8. Bring your dancing shoes and hit the dance floor for the always-fun chicken dance. If you're a novice, learn to do the Polka, the Waltz and other popular dances that help define Oktoberfest.

Tips & Warnings

• The FDSK is located at the corner of 23rd Street and second Avenue in Birmingham.
• Arrive early, as seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Resources

• FDSK German Club website for details on the Birmingham Oktoberfest