No, we’re not in Munich, Germany -- but we found the next best thing!

We came across an adorable little Bavarian village nestled at the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in Washington state. It was the perfect time to visit, as the town was celebrating OKTOBERFEST in grand German tradition.

The day started off with a procession heading down a cute alpine street that was lined with amazing Bavarian style buildings. The parade was led by a horse drawn carriage that was carrying barrels of the blessed ale for the festivities. Marching along to the oompah playing band was accordion players, dancers, horn blowers and floats. As the band played the Pennsylvania Polka, the crowds followed the wagon into a grand hall where the mayor of the town officiated the ceremonies. It was his job to tap the keg (we want this guys job)! Following the keg tapping ceremony everyone rose their glass to toast the opening of Oktoberfest. As the beer flowed freely, the bands played on and the German dancers started spinning. It was a great way to celebrate autumn in Washington!
 
The newspapers the next day claimed that 15,750 gallons of beer and 12,000 brats were consumed over the course of the celebration. I know we contributed to that total as we spent the day dancing, eating, and drinking our way through the town. It was the best Oktoberfest this side of Munich!

THE HAPPY WANDERER

I love to go a'wandering
along the mountain track
and as I go,I always have
my knapsack on my back!
Valderie, Valdera,
Valderie,Valdera,ha,ha,ha
ha, ha, ha, ha
Valderie, Valdera
a knapsack on my back!