What Is Oktoberfest In Helen GA All About?

Looking for a great place to celebrate Oktoberfest In Helen GA this Fall?

The charming city of Helen, Georgia has been hosting this beloved event since 1970. For those who are not familiar with the area, you may find yourself wondering what on earth a German festival is doing in a Georgia mountain town. To restore the local economy, Helen was transformed into an Alpine village, featuring cobblestone roads, winding alleys, Bavarian architecture, authentic German food and more – all with a healthy dose of southern charm. Since that time, Helen has become famous far and wide for putting on the largest, longest-running, and best Oktoberfest celebration in all of the southeastern United States. So what can you expect from this cherished festival? Read on to learn exactly what Helen’s own Oktoberfest is all about.

The Spirit Oktoberfest in Helen, GA

Our spectacular Oktoberfest celebration is known for:

• Food – What’s Oktoberfest without some authentic German fare? Helen is known throughout the year for offering succulent Bavarian favorites at many of its local eateries, but these treats and dishes become especially sought-after when the party is going full-swing. Whether you’ve tried German food in the past or are just curious, you’ll have plenty of options. Snack on fresh, hot pretzels, or go for a wurst. Brats are available and served hot on delectable rolls – with or without sauerkraut. Enjoy your meal with a side of red cabbage or potato salad. Don’t forget to save room for German chocolate cake! It will be love at first bite.
• Music – It’s the fun oom-pa-pa of German polka music that lights up the background and really sets the tone for the annual Oktoberfest celebration. Live music is provided at the Festhalle each night throughout the festival so that no matter when you choose to attend, you will have the opportunity to dance the night away with your nearest and dearest. Even if you don’t think you have what it takes to shake a tail feather, you will not want to miss out on everyone’s favorite – The Chicken Dance!  Visit the Helen Chamber of Commerce website for a full music schedule!
• Beer – Many people think of Oktoberfest mainly as a time to enjoy an ice cold beer. As you can see, there’s a lot more to it than that, but the beer sure doesn’t hurt! You and your group can enjoy locally brewed domestic, and international beers and the different German flavors and help you take a load off during your getaway to the north Georgia mountains. If you’re not a fan of beer, you’ll also be able to try a variety of different wines – including those native to Helen and its surrounding areas. For a non-alcoholic take on the festival, stay warm with German coffee, hot chocolate, tea, cider, and other fall beverage favorites.
• Gemütlichkeit – This is the German word for an atmosphere of community, cheer, and belonging that’s present throughout the festival. This really is the heart and soul of the celebration. Although many of the city’s restaurants and pubs hold events and offer special meal and drink deals of their own, the primary setting of Helen’s Oktoberfest is the Festhalle. Here, you will find long rows of communal tables arranged so that attendees can enjoy traditional Bavarian food and drink, and live entertainment with their own family and friends, while also having the ability to mingle with the crowds and meet new people.

Further Information About Helen’s Oktoberfest

If you are planning on traveling with a group, be sure to check with us for reservations. Finally, it is important that you book your lodging well in advance as this is a particularly busy time of year for tourism throughout Helen and its neighboring cities.    

Want to learn more about Helen’s Oktoberfest and how you can get the most out of your visit to the area this autumn? We are more than happy to help you find answers to all of your questions.