Your vacation is a time to get away from the stresses of every day life and experience a whole new world. Though the idea of flying across oceans and exploring new countries and cultures may sound appealing, it can also be far too costly for the average American family to enjoy. What if you could feel German and experience the beauty and culture of old world Germany right here in northern Georgia? When you book a stay at one of the fabulous luxury cabins in Helen, you will be able to enjoy a taste of the German lifestyle on a budget that you can afford. Here we will take a closer look at how you can take advantage of the Bavarian life throughout the year when visiting Helen.
The Best Ways To Experience Germany Near Helen
The Alpine Village
Just moments away from Helen you will discover the enchanting village of Alpine Helen. From the instant that you arrive on main street, you will feel as though you have truly been whisked away to another place and time. From the Bavarian style architecture to the winding cobblestone alleyways to the pleasant aroma of German chocolate and traditional dishes in the air, the city of Helen is a wonderful recreation of Bavarian culture. You and your group will enjoy people watching, browsing through the many Alpine gift, specialty,and food shops, and tasting German delights in the many Bavarian cafes and bakeries. You can even explore the town on a horse drawn carriage ride from the Alpine carriage company! It is an unforgettable experience no matter what time of year you choose to visit Helen.
Volksmarch
In German tradition, volksmarching (which means “the people’s march”) is a form of non-competitive fitness walking that brings the young and old together to socialize and walk in the outdoors. During the Spring, visitors to Helen can participate in the Helen Volksmarch which follows a marked path from the Festhalle to Unicoi State Park. The 5 kilometer walk is a great way for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the beautiful countryside and meet new people while getting some exercise in the fresh mountain air.
Oktoberfest
If you plan your visit to the Helen during the fall between the middle of September and the end of October, you will be able to take advantage of the Helen Oktoberfest – the longest running and largest celebration of it’s kind in all of the southeastern United States! People come from all over to enjoy the German festivities and to come together for Helen’s infamous Oktoberfest. In addition to wetting your whistle with international, domestic, and local beer and wine flavors, you will also satisfy your tastebuds and tummy with delightful German cuisine like bratwurst, sauerkraut, strudel, and more! Sit down and enjoy your Bavarian treats in the Alpine Helen Festhalle where visitors can gather together and eat community style and enjoy live music. You will be tapping your toes and dancing all night long to the “oom pah” of traditional German polka music. You may even find yourself drawn in to join in the beloved Chicken Dance!
Bavarian Nights of Summer
When you stay in Helen during the summer months you will be entertained by the traditional Bavarian nights of summer – a northern Georgia favorite! From the middle of June through the end of August, visitors are welcome to join other tourists and locals in the Festhalle on Saturday nights for some German style celebration! Featuring live music and dancing, the Festhalle is truly the place to be for those who are looking for fun and the authentic Bavarian experience. You will enjoy traditional German cuisine and beers as you tap your toes or dance to the music with your nearest and dearest – and you may make some new friends, too!
Alpenfest
When you plan a vacation to Helen during the winter months, you will find yourself enchanted by the snowcapped mountains and the lights of Helen during Alpenfest. The wintertime celebration embraces the magic of the holiday season, creating a truly special place to be for locals and tourists alike. You and your group will be delighted by the glimmering Christmas lights, the annual festival of the trees, and even a visit to Santa Clause! And don’t miss out on the fifth annual Christkindlmarkt – a German holiday tradition! You will find vendors selling unique holiday gifts and ornaments from booths in downtown Helen as you enjoy the flavors of sweet and savory treats in a magical holiday atmosphere.
Have you visited Helen during any of these Bavarian celebrations? What tips do you have for future visitors? Please leave us a comment below. And if you’re looking for other reasons to book a vacation in Helen, check out our FREE guide!