Your friends abroad this semester might be gallivanting around Europe, enjoying Oktoberfest in all its glory without you, but you can still have a taste of the famous German festival here in New Orleans.

History

Oktoberfest originated in the early 1800s as a wedding celebration for Crown Prince Ludwig’s marriage to Princess Theresa. It evolved in the following years as an annual agricultural fair, and, in 1950, the tradition of tapping the keg to start the festival began. Now, Germans all over the world celebrate Oktoberfest as a reminder of their heritage and a way to connect with their communities.

In New Orleans

Luckily for Tulane students, Oktoberfest isn’t limited to Germany. Deutsches Haus, which fosters German heritage and culture in the Gulf South, is holding its own Oktoberfest at 1700 Moss St. in Mid-City. The festival runs every Friday and Saturday during the first three weeks of October and is packed full of schnitzel, strudel, German brews and vibrant cultural events.

What Not to Miss

Oktoberfest kicks off Friday, Oct. 5 at 6 p.m. with the Tapping of the First Keg. After that, enjoy daily beer-stein holding contests, dancing and live music. If you’re in town for Fall Break, make sure to check out the Schnauzer costume contest and parade on Saturday, Oct. 13 at 6 p.m. For dog lovers, the “infamous” Dachshund Dash will return on Saturday, Oct. 20 at 3 p.m. And if $12 admission seems steep, you can get in for free by participating in the Oktoberfest two-mile walk/run at noon on Saturday, Oct. 6.