When it comes to fall, most Americans think of cooler weather, autumn leaves and pumpkin spice lattes.
But, the end of September and beginning of October is also a time for Oktoberfest — a German folk festival that celebrates Bavarian culture with food, beer and traditional activities.
Over the past few weeks, a number of Oktoberfest celebrations have taken place across the Triangle and Orange County.
These Oktoberfest events provide the opportunity for residents in the Triangle to connect with their German heritage and culture, while also showcasing their traditions to the larger community.
Josh Wittman, a partner at Motorco Music Hall, which recently hosted its own Oktoberfest, said some of the traditional celebrations in the Triangle have been going on for 30 to 40 years and are attended by large groups of German families and German immigrants.
Motorco's 13th annual Oktoberfest featured authentic German dishes and beers, live music and several activities.
Activities included traditional German challenges such as the Steinholding challenge, which tests a participant’s strength based on how long they can hold a liter of beer with a straight arm. They also held a pretzel toss, in which participants attempt to throw a pretzel onto a walking stick.
“When people come, they're dressed up in actual lederhosen and actual dirndls, you know, the band, of course, is fully decked out in traditional garments,” Wittman said.
The Little German Band and Dancers, a Triangle-based group, performed Bavarian dances and music at Motorco’s Oktoberfest.
