Also known as the Capital of the South, Atlanta’s diverse culture, eclectic attractions, and thriving culinary scene brought more than 52 million visitors to the city in 2016. From traditional Japanese cuisine to soul food, Georgia’s capital city is a must for foodies, and some great locations include Staplehouse, Bone’s Restaurant, and Atlas. Try visiting the World of Coca-Cola, which features two levels of exhibits and samples of more than 100 different varieties of Coke from around the world.
The German Bierfest has been Atlanta’s top showcase of German culture since its inception in 2003, and it will take place August 26, at Woodruff Park. Attendees will encounter a selection of more than 35 German beers from producers like Spaten, Paulaner, and Beck's. Plus, patrons will receive a commemorative glass for sampling. Six Atlanta area German restaurants and food vendors will serve all of your favorites from pretzels to bratwurst, and the Sweet Georgia Sounds Oompah Band will perform a variety of live German celebration songs. This year’s event will include many activities and games that are ideal for all ages including the Tug of War Challenge, and patrons are encouraged to dress in their favorite traditional German garb or costumes. We got the opportunity to interview Mary Fiorello, with Premier Events, to learn more about this celebration of German heritage.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
MF: The event started in 2003 (in what felt like a backyard get together) with 150 guests and a selection of 16 German beers. The Bierfest team has continued to develop the event, inspired by the popularity of its guests. Ideas evolved along with location, beer selection, and attendees number.
RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?
MF: The festival has become a favorite, and we now welcome thousands of beer enthusiasts each year.
RAL: What demographic does your event attract? Children? Families? Couples?
MF: While most beer festivals are 21 and older, our festival is family friendly. You must be 21 to enjoy all of the excellent German beers, but anyone who wants to enjoy the festivities can purchase a $10 designated driver ticket.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
MF: The event is considered Atlanta’s best German cultural celebration. Our selection of German beers and foods is difficult to match.
RAL: Take me through the activities of a day at the event.
MF: There will be plenty of great activities including the Tug of War Challenge, lawn games, and a variety of activities from Atlanta Sport and Social Club.
RAL: Will there be any guest appearances?
MF: We're thrilled the Sweet Georgia Sounds Oompah Band "The Wurstbrats" will perform all of your favorite German music throughout the Fest.
RAL: What dining options will attendees encounter?
MF: We have several food vendors who will be serving up German favorites including:
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Bernhard's German Bakery
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Best of the Wurst
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Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen
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Hansel and Griddle
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Knotty Pretzels
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Petite Violette
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
MF: There are plenty of downtown hotels within walking distance to the event.
RAL: What does this event mean to the community?
MF: This event educates and celebrates German culture. It drives a good amount of business to the local economy.
RAL: Does the event support a particular cause in the community?
MF: Yes, the event benefits the German Chamber of Commerce, which serves as an official representative of German industry in the Southern U.S.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
MF: The German Bierfest is one of Atlanta's longest running beer festivals and features only German beers. Our event partner, the German American Chamber of Commerce, ensures that the event is authentic to the German culture. The event is a German-themed party with all things German – beer, food, music. Event attendees are encouraged to break out their lederhosen and wear costumes!
We’re excited to celebrate our 14th Anniversary with our loyal guests and friends. Join us August 26th and experience Atlanta’s Favorite German Culture Celebration.
For more information about the German Bierfest, please visit the event website.