OktOBERfest of Ober Gatlinburg

Location: Ober Gatlinburg

Dates: Sept. 28 - Nov. 4, 2012

Photo Source: InsideGatlinburg.com

OktOBERfest is now in full swing, and there are only a few more weeks remaining so consider yourself lucky if you will be in town to take part in this fun, family-friendly event! It all takes place throughout the month of October at the Ober Gatlinburg Resort where you can indulge in authentic Bavarian cuisine and sip your favorite German beverage. The festival is reminiscent of the famous Oktober Festival which is held annually in Munich, Germany since 1810 and features daily merrymaking throughout every October since then. This year marks the third annual Gatlinburg-style version of this event, and it is growing more popular as folks have become more aware of the festivities.

Live music performances by the Bavarian Fun Makers Band will take place at 1pm and 5 pm Monday through Thursday throughout the week and at noon, 2, 4, and 6pm Friday through Sunday on weekends. The Bavarian-style show consists of entertainers in authentic costumes who perform original German folk dances, oompah music, sing-a-longs, yodels, schuhplattling, and more. You will find yourself being swept away by the unique traditions and lured by the mouthwatering edible temptations so you don't even have to be German to appreciate all the culture that is showcased at this festival!

Food will be served a-la-carte at the Ober Gatlinburg Restaurant & Lounge and includes appetizers, sandwiches, and entrees as well as a menu full of traditional Bavarian cuisine such as German bratwurst, sauerkraut, schnitzel, pretzels, strudels, and more. Beer tents will be set up outside where special Oktoberfect Biers and German lagers including Shiner Bock, Sam Adams, Oktoberfest, and Cottonwood Pumpkin Spiced Ale will be served on tap. You will be sure to get your fill and satisfy every taste bud at this delectable event.

While you're here, venture out and explore all the other fun activities of Ober. It is primarily known for its winter activities which include skiing, snowboarding and snowtubing, but that's just the start of what you can do here. Ride the 120-passenger Aerial Tramway and get a full appreciation for the beautiful scenery overlooking the fall leaves and mountain views, or check out the Wildlife Encounter including the Municipal Black Bear Habitat and Birds of Prey Exhibit. There’s also an ice skating rink, Alpine Slide, scenic chairlift, three water raft rides, shops, restaurant and lounge on site as well as a carousel, a water ride, a kiddie land, mini golf, and an arcade. Oh, and don't forget to check out the newest attraction at Ober Gatlinburg, the 4,600 square-foot Amaze‘n Maze, where guests of all ages can sharpen their navigational skills while competing against their family, friends and the clock. As you can see, there are a number of reasons to visit Ober, Gatlinburg, and OktOBERfest will make your experience even more memorable than ever!