30th Annual Oktoberfest Brings Germany to Carlsbad

On Saturday, Oct. 6, the Carlsbad Rotary Club held its 30th annual Oktoberfest. Presented by John Haedrich's Tip Top Meats, the Oktoberfest featured traditional German food, live music and dancing, a beer garden, and other fun festivities.

Oktoberfest, known internationally as a 16-day festival held in Germany since 1810, was replicated right in Carlsbad's Holiday Park.Transformed into a beer garden, the park filled with festival-goers, some of whom even arrived in traditional German costumes. Beer was provided by Budweiser, Bud Light, Beck's, Shock Top, Oceanside Ale Works IPA, and O'Doul's.

For a $10 meal ticket, visitors could enjoy an authentic German dinner with bratwurst, Polish sausage, red cabbage, sauerkraut, and German potatoes. The Carlsbad Danish Bakery provided another German delicacy, apple strudel. However, if not in the mood for German food, visitors could also purchase tickets for the typical carnival fare-- hot dogs, cotton candy, pumpkin pie, ice cream, kettle corn, and more.

The Bluebirds German Band, the Palomar Pacific Coast Concert Band, Faith Page, and The Last Call Classic Rock Band added to the atmosphere with a blend of traditional German music and classic rock. The entertainment also featured performances from the Carlsbad Community Theatre and other local groups.

Also included in the Oktoberfest celebration was a pumpkin patch, where families could buy their own pumpkins and decorate them. To put their pumpkin decorating skills to the test, a panel of judges held a contest for the Best Decorated Pumpkin in four different age group categories.

An inflatable obstacle course, face painting, a magician, and even an antique fire truck added to the fun for the young ones.

All proceeds from the Oktoberfest will be donated to local, non-profit organizations.

Visit the Carlsbad Rotary Oktoberfest website to learn more about the event or to find out how your company can be a sponsor.