It’s nearly October and you know what that means – it’s Oktoberfest time!

 

Did you know that Oktoberfest came to be because a royal wedding was held in the city of Munich in 1810? When Crown Prince Ludwig was going to tie the knot, the Bavarian king decided that there should be a royal party the world would never forget – and that’s exactly what happened. It became an annual celebration in Munich that is now celebrated as Oktoberfest.

 

German social clubs around the state are getting ready for this big annual event that's as family friendly as they come! Make plans to attend one of these Oktoberfest happenings filled with fantastic food, music, dancing, singing, German libations, and much more:

 

It’s the most authentic Oktoberfest in the Tampa Bay area so don’t miss it held at the German American Society of Pinellas County, 8098 66th St. North, Pinellas Park. Sept 25-26 and Oct 2-3

 

The German-American Social Club of Cape Coral on SW Pine Island Road, Route 78 is known for having a fantastic, authentic Oktoberfest. Bring your dancin’ shoes. Oct. 16, 17 & 18 and Oct. 23, 24 & 25

 

It’s only one day, Oct. 17, and it will be held at Kolb Park from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. This is a great family friendly outing and it’s FREE. See their website for directions.

 

Are ready for this? It’s one of the largest in the entire country and it’s put on each year by The American-German Club, 5111 Lantana Road, in Lake Worth. Admission is $7, kids under 12 are free. It’s held over two weekends, Oct. 9, 10, 11 & Oct.16, 17, 18

 

Join the fun at the 15th annual Oktoberfest at Fritz & Franz Bierhaus, 60 Merrick Way in the heart of the Gables. It’s held on the open pavilion it runs every day from Oct. 2-11. And it’s FREE. For more info call 305-774-1883 or visit their website.

 

Dubbed ‘Biketoberfest’, this event takes place on Main Street in Daytona, scheduled for Oct. 15-18. For more info, log on to their website.

 

It’s one night so don’t miss your chance to have fun in Downtown Avalon Park, Oct 17, 2009, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

 

With old-world German traditions the first night (along with hayrides and falling leaves) and a Rocktoberfest on the second night, you need to check out this Disney version of Oktoberfest. Oct. 9-10, 2009, Downtown Celebration

 

This is the one that my family always enjoys, held at the German American Social Club at 11919 SW 56 Street. All the fun happens under the big tents and the food is awesome. There are also vendors set up in the air conditioned building selling German wares. Get some real gummy bears while you’re there – and German chocolate! Oct. 16, 17, 18 & Oct. 23, 24, 25

 

Have a great time,

 

Jill Martin, Family Insider, VISIT FLORIDA