Local event celebrates the 200th anniversary of Oktoberfest

EATONTON – The Lake Oconee area became a bit of Bavaria on Saturday as more than 120 guests gathered at Cuscowilla’s Waterside Restaurant for the second annual Oktoberfest to benefit Redeemer Episcopal Academy. The event coincided with the 200th anniversary of the world-renowned Oktoberfest, held each year in Munich, Germany.

On tap for the evening were 14 different beers from German breweries including Spaten, Paulaner and Ayinger, served with a bounty of Bavarian fare. The spread included Chicken Schnitzel, Roasted Pork Loin, Bratwurst, braised red cabbage and herb Spaetzle, topped off with an array of decadent German desserts from Linzer torte and apple strudel to Bienenstich, a vanilla cream-filled yeast cake topped with caramelized almonds.

“Once again, the event was a great success,” said coordinator Dr. Chris Bassett. “It’s a lot of fun to be able to bring a bit of Bavaria to Lake Oconee for those who may not get to go to Germany, but love good food and good ales.”  

On average, more than six million people attend the 16-18 day festival each year in Munich Germany. And like the official festival abroad, many guests at this year’s Oktoberfest at Lake Oconee donned traditional Bavarian attire and danced to the Polka-inspired music played by members of Atlanta’s Ruby Red’s Band.

While, over the years, the tents at Munich’s world fair have transformed into beer halls and Oktoberfest is more commonly associated with the outpouring of German ales and lagers, the original event was held on Oct. 12, 1810 to commemorate the marriage of then Crown Prince Ludwig to Princess Therese.

In keeping with the 200-year-old Oktoberfest tradition, the local event named its own King and Queen of Oktoberfest, Dr. Martin and Katy Medrano.

Along with a rousing raffle, guests were able to bid on an extensive list of silent auction items, including overnight stays at Ritz Carlton, jewelry, purses, wine glasses, beer mugs and various gift baskets.

Proceeds from the event benefit Redeemer Episcopal Academy, an independent, faith-based, college preparatory school that offers a world-class education in an enriching and nurturing environment. For more information on Redeemer Episcopal Academy, visit www.RedeemerAcademy.org.