On Saturday, Colorado Ave. was bursting with German culture. As Germany celebrates the last weekend of Oktoberfest, Kristin Brethauer, the Orchard Mesa Lions Club, the German American Club, and the Elk’s Lodge put on a festival for the Grand Valley, too.

“I officially declare Oct. 5, 2013, as Oktoberfest in Grand Junction,” announced Grand Junction Mayor Sam Susuras at the Opening Ceremony.

Jim Witt, the president of the German American Club, has been a part of the local Oktoberfest for 32 years. If the festival could be summed up in one word, it would be “Gemütlichkeit,” said Witt. “It’s a German word that means just being together. Fellowship, good friends, beer and a good time.”

Spanning over two blocks, there was plenty of Gemütlichkeit going around Oktoberfest. Polka bands, German dancing and even wiener dog races captured attention from all ages.

Originating in Bavaria, Oktoberfest is the world’s largest fair. In 1810, it was the celebration of the marriage between Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildeburghausen. Since it was a such a popular celebration, it became an annual tradition.

Now Oktoberfest is a 16-day festival held in Munich, packed full with German heritage and celebrations.

“We are Bavarians today having fun,” Witt said. “[Oktoberfest] gives us with German descent a chance to celebrate our heritage.”

All money earned from the event goes back to the community.

“It’s time for a beer and a brat,” Susuras said to close the Opening Ceremony.

Food and drink is always a highlight for Oktoberfest. A beer tent with several German brews was set up along with several food tents.

Hans Rieger and Charlotte Zangerle preformed their favorite German and English folk songs. Rieger said that his favorite part of the whole festival is “drinking beer,” a common trend among the festival goers.
Oktoberfest is one of the few things that the German American Club brings to Grand Junction. They are also a strong supporter of exchange programs at local high schools.

caoconno@mavs.coloradomesa.edu