Located deep in the Adirondacks and on the southern shore of the lake that shares its name, Lake George Village is the perfect destination when planning a New York excursion. The village’s beautiful natural surroundings are ideal for a host of activities including wildlife viewing, fishing, biking, golfing, and more. Whether you're touring the downtown area via red trolley or ziplining through the tree canopy at Adirondack Extreme Outdoor Adventures, Lake George Village is the place to be.
The Lake George Oktoberfest has been a go-to fall event for thousands of people, and it takes place October 6-8 in the heart of Lake George Village. Attendees will encounter a Bavarian-themed celebration perfect for all ages. This year’s event will feature live German and Polka music throughout, as well as a variety of German foods like pretzels, sausage, and brats. A variety of great beers and ciders from around the region can be found in the Adirondack Brewery Beer Garden. The vendor marketplace will include everything from clothing to artisan foods, and the kid's area will have rides, games, and activities for all ages. No Oktoberfest celebration would be complete without some fun games, and attendees can try the keg toss, stein hoisting, and more. We got the opportunity to interview Phil Cassella, a representative for the event to learn more about this great, all ages celebration.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
PC: 2017 will mark Lake George Village's 7th Oktoberfest!
RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?
PC: The event annually attracts more than 10,000 attendees from the region as well as throughout the Northeast.
RAL: What demographic does your event attract? Children? Families? Couples?
PC: Lake George Oktoberfest attracts people of all ages, from all different backgrounds! There are numerous family-friendly events, children's activities, and the Adirondack Brewery Beer Garden is the perfect weekend activity for couples looking to enjoy the Lake George Fall Foliage with a German-twist.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
PC: The event truly has something for everyone! From carnival rides and games for the kids to local craft vendors showing off their wares, the event has something for all ages. Plus, the incredibly talented live music performances throughout the weekend.
RAL: Take me through the activities of a day at the event.
PC: Here are some of the activities:
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Keg Toss Competition
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Carnival Rides
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Face Painting
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Pony Rides
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Stein Hoisting Competition
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Local Artisan Market
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Live Traditional Oktoberfest Music
RAL: What dining options will attendees encounter?
PC: There are many delicious dining options including the Adirondack Pub & Brewery Bier Garden serving up delicious traditional Oktoberfest food alongside their locally-brewed beer. Other options include delicious sweets, cider donuts, kettle corn, healthy selections, and more.
RAL: Tell me about the overall atmosphere.
PC: The event feels like an authentic Bavarian-style street fair. You'll see plenty of lederhosen, Dirndl Bows, and traditional hats.
RAL: What will attendees find for local lodging?
PC: Lake George is full of great lodging options for all budgets. The Fort William Henry Hotel and Conference Center offers special room rates for the weekend. Just mention the event when you call! Other great options in town include The Surfside, Super 8, the Courtyard by Marriott, and of course a variety of local B&B's that are all walking distance to the event.
RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?
PC: Lake George is a highly seasonal town. Business slows down a lot after children go back to school in September. The Lake George Village Oktoberfest is a huge boost for the local economy by drawing in over 10,000 people for Columbus Day weekend.
RAL: Does the event support a particular cause in the community?
PC: Lake George Oktoberfest relies heavily on the help of volunteers. They, in turn, select a local charity that we will donate their event-pay too.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
PC: The Lake George Oktoberfest is a truly unique event. A German-inspired weekend packed with fun and focused on community. The Adirondacks are a beautiful Fall Destination, and the Lake George Oktoberfest is the highlight of Columbus Day weekend. Fun for all ages and lifestyles, this event is one of the few that offers something for everyone.
For more information about the Lake George Oktoberfest, please visit the event website.