Why Gatlinburg’s Oktoberfest Should Be on Your Fall To-do List
Fall has arrived, bringing with it good tidings of cool weather, changing leaves, and pumpkin-spiced everything. When fall rolls around, we usually slip into a cozier state of mind—embracing wholesome activities like apple picking, trail hiking, and indulging ourselves with hearty fall-time foods. However, the slow, restful pace of fall is always welcome for a little lively pick-me-up. And the Germans know how to do this just right. We’re talking about the boisterous Bavarian bash known as Oktoberfest.
But where in the U.S. can people celebrate Oktoberfest as the Germans do?
Well, here at BusTickets.com—we’re plugged into these things. With bus routes taking curious travelers to every corner of the country, we’ve become pretty well informed about which regional festivals are worth visiting. When it comes to Oktoberfest celebrations, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better one than in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Currently hosting its 10th annual Oktoberfest celebration—the mountainous resort, appropriately known as Ober Gatlinburg, pulls out all the stops to provide a fun event for everyone to enjoy.
Don’t just take our word for it. Here are five reasons to make Gatlinburg’s Oktoberfest a staple in your fall celebrations.
The Food
Fall time is notorious for being a time of bountiful feasting—especially when Thanksgiving rolls around—and the Gatlinburg Oktoberfest is no different. Traditional German and Bavarian cuisine is served hot throughout the festival, featuring notable dishes like schnitzel, bratwurst, and strudel.
It might not be the traditional fall-time food you’re used to, but after a taste of delicious German cuisine, you might be swayed to make it a fall tradition.
The Music
No Oktoberfest would be complete without music. Echoing against the Gatlinburg mountains, you’ll hear traditional German music contributing to the atmosphere of the festival.
Bands like The Bavarian Fun Makers Band make their appearance in full costume, performing Bavarian folk dances, Schuhplattler, oompah music, yodels, and more. If not an entertaining way to enjoy your food and drink, these concerts make for a great soundtrack to your Oktoberfest celebrations.
The Beer
Of course, you can’t forget the most important aspect of any Oktoberfest—the Bier (beer).
Gatlinburg Oktoberfest features an outdoor Biergarten for festival-goers who are 21 and up. With an extensive beer list provided, find yourself sampling German brews until your heart’s content (responsibly, of course).
The Games & Rides
Who doesn’t love games? The folks over at the Gatlinburg Oktoberfest sure do! Giving you a reason to bring along your kids to this family-friendly event, the festival features outdoor games run by volunteers to keep the kids busy while you sit back and enjoy your beer. In addition to the carnival-style games, the festival’s venue — Ober Gatlinburg — offers an exhilarating ski mountain coaster, chairlift, indoor skating rink, minigolf, and more!
The Scenery
To top it all off, the Gatlinburg Oktoberfest is hosted by Ober Gatlinburg, a four-season ski resort and amusement park situated in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Enjoy the sights and sounds of German delight as you take in the stunning mountain scenery overlooking the city of Gatlinburg. This gorgeous landscape in fall is the perfect complement to your Oktoberfest celebrations and will make for an occasion you won’t soon forget.
Make Your Way to Gatlinburg for a Bavarian Bash
When looking for ways to spice up your fall season with something other than cinnamon, there’s no better way than a trip to Gatlinburg for a rambunctious German-themed outing amongst the mountains. But before you do, you have to consider how you’ll get there. We recommend making your way by bus for convenient, comfortable, and affordable travel. Visit BusTickets.com to purchase your tickets and start planning your trip today!
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