How to Celebrate Oktoberfest in Newark, Delaware

The city of Newark, Delaware, hosts one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in the Northeast part of the country. The event has been hosted by the Delaware Saengerbund and Library Association for 4 years, and it's been growing each year. The annual incarnation of this authentic replica of the German festival typically takes place on the third weekend of September.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Camera
• Small bag for souvenirs

Participate in Newark's Oktoberfest Events

1. Set aside a sizable budget for admission, drinks and souvenirs. The Newark Oktoberfest admission fee is relatively low for all ages, giving you access to a unique experience without breaking the bank. Souvenirs can range from cheap stickers to expensive handmade German crafts.
2. Plan to celebrate Oktoberfest as much as possible while in Newark. Musical acts begin playing around 5:00pm on Friday afternoon and festivities wrap up usually by 6:00pm on Sunday.
3. Read about the origins of Oktoberfest before heading to Newark for the festival. The Delaware Saengerbund is an organization focused on preserving German traditions. Their website features a brief history of the event that will provide you with adequate knowledge (see Resources below).
4. Watch the Friday night parade that kicks off Newark's Oktoberfest celebrations. The centerpiece of the parade is the Munich Child, a child dressed in monk's clothing that is used in the German version of Oktoberfest. Local luminaries and proud German Americans also participate in the event.
5. Enjoy the Bavarian dance stylings by international artists throughout the weekend. These entertaining groups perform sporadically throughout Oktoberfest, creating an authentic environment for this German celebration. The use of lederhosen and dirndl skirts add a nice accent to their traditional performances.
6. Taste authentic German food like "Rollmops" while you celebrate at Newark's Oktoberfest. This savory dish features marinated herring presented with a piece of rye bread that provides a bitter contrast. Share the dish with friends if you feel trepidation as it can be an acquired taste.
7. Leave the umbrella and the rain coat at home when you celebrate Oktoberfest in Newark. The organizers have utilized long white tents all 4 years of the celebration to keep participants away from adverse weather conditions.

Tips & Warnings

• Utilize the free amusement park rides that are included with Oktoberfest admission. Ferris wheels and other common festival rides let you see the proceedings from a different perspective.