If you think you’ve missed out on the most German celebration of the year… pull that lederhosen back out of the drawer! Oktoberfest is still in full swing and there are several festivities to enjoy before Oktober gives way to Halloween. One of the largest celebrations is in Oldsmar and gets underway Friday, October 23rd.
The German Tradition of Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is a German tradition that dates back to the 1800’s. It’s still celebrated in Munich today as a 16 day event that has become part of the Bavarian culture.
It’s now celebrated all over the world and millions of people raise their steins in honor of the beer festival.
Where to Celebrate Oktoberfest in Tampa Bay
1.) Oldsmar Florida at the Tampa Bay Downs:
The celebration has been moved to the Tampa Bay Downs Racetrack to accomodate more than 20,000 people who come out to the event every year. According to the Chamber of Commerce it’s the largest and longest running Oktoberfest in West Central Florida! Festivities begin at 5:00 on Friday, October 23 and continue all weekend long. Parking is free and admission is $5. Click here for a list of this years events.
You can count on traditional German dancing and music, authentic German sausage, Hofbrauhaus chicken, and they promise a fabulous selection of Rhein wine and beer vom Fass from the tap! Bring the whole family for food, fun, and carnival rides at this event. You can also take on one of the hourly challenges including: Stein-Holding, Log Sawing, Keg Tossing and Barrel Rolling. We wish you lots of luck!
2.) Hofbrauhaus St Pete:
It’s always Oktoberfest at the new Hofbrauhaus in St. Petersburg. It’s about as German as St. Petersburg gets with a traditional beer hall, beer garden, and restaurant. Currently, you can enjoy the Oktoberfest spirit with the Hofbrau Oktoberfest brew that’s being served up now.
Everything they do at Hofbrauhaus has been passed down through the generations. Take the beer, for example, they brew it the same way the Duke of Bavaria did using the same recipes and importing the ingredients directly from the source in Munich, Germany. If that’s not enough the beer brewing is overseen by a Brew master in Germany. If an authentic Oktoberfest experience is what you’re after- this place is likely up to the task!
Other October Celebrations in Tampa Bay
John’s Pass Seafood and Music Festival
Oktoberfest isn’t the only reason to celebrate the season. It’s fall in the Bay area and that means it’s time for the annual John’s Pass Seafood Festival! It runs all weekend long from October 23-25. If you love the Gulf then you’ll love what comes out of it! There will be the largest seafood selection you’ve ever seen, costume contests, kids activities, live music and more!
There is something for everyone in October in Tampa Bay! It’s why we love calling this area home. Whatever you choose to do make sure you get there and get home safely!
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