Denver Sets Stage for Oktoberfest

A Denver Festival that has been around for 43 years will entertain guests again starting this weekend. Oktoberfest is a free two-weekend festival that features all things beer. The event sets the stage in Denver’s Ballpark Neighborhood to honor the tradition of Bavarian heritage. A stein hoisting competition, German fare, crafts, authentic German food and entertainment are all part of the fun.

Live Music: Oktoberfest will once again feature a German Stage and a Rock Stage, with live performances from the PolkaNauts, the Average German Band and more.

Das Hustlehoff: Set for Saturday, Sept. 29, this ultimate fun run takes participants through Downtown Denver. Runners are encouraged to dress in authentic German attire. Registration is open and all runners receive a free Das Hustlehoff/Denver Oktoberfest t-shirt and those of age will receive a well-deserved post-race bier.

 Long Dog Derby– Oktoberfest Denver proudly returns the 7th Annual Long Dog Derby – the race that determines Denver’s fastest dachshunds! Set for Sunday, Sept. 30th at Oktoberfest Denver, the Long Dog Derby encourages all wiener dogs to participate regardless of age or size. Awards will be given to winners in six categories.  This year the race will run ALL DAY Sunday!  Prost!
 
Brat Eating– 20 local charities will have one eater eat their hearts out in an attempt to win a prize of $1,000 towards their charity. There is also prize money for second and third.  The competition will take place on Saturday, September 29 at 2pm. If you are interested in competing, please email Lindsey@humanmovement.me
 
Stein Hositing– Okay stein studs, get ready to hoist those bad boys with your arms out! Men and women over 21 years of age are invited to participate in the competition! It’s your ultimate test of arm/shoulder strength. How does it work? Participants can qualify for the finals at any participating Denver Area bar during scheduled promotions OR qualify at the 43nd Annual Denver Oktoberfest.  You must hold two full 1.5 Liter steins with straight arms in front of you. The male and female contestants who hold up the steins for the longest time will win an all expense paid trip to Boston for two, compliments of Sam Adams. You can schedule your trip during the Boston Oktoberfest, or at your leisure. This event will be held during all six days of Oktobrefest, to participate all you need to do is show up and tell a staff member by the stage that you want to participate.

Dates

Fridays, September 21 & 28: 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Saturdays, September 22 & 29: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Sundays, September 23 & 30: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: Ballpark Neighborhood- Larimer Street from 20th to 22nd Streets in downtown Denver.

A full schedule of events can be found at thedenveroktoberfest.com.

About Denver Oktoberfest:

Denver Oktoberfest began in 1969, when Larimer Square residents Fred and Hertha Thomas honored their favorite tradition, quietly tapped a keg of Coors, and served pretzels and white radishes.   The event attracts an average of 450,000 attendees and donates more than $55,000 each year to local charities.