From a media release:
It's nearing time for the region's largest Oktoberfest celebration and it's all taking place right here in Chattanooga. A 13-year fall season tradition, Chattanooga Oktoberfest creates the stage for enjoying traditional German flavors, music and entertainment, and for an extended 5 days this year. The Chattanooga Oktoberfest is best known for its festive, family-friendly atmosphere with an authentic German vibe. "It became apparent to us (at Chattanooga Market) these last several years that we were hosting this festival for not only our community, but folks from all over the country were enjoying it as well. We've added more events and entertainment to the festival schedule than ever before; and so we invite everyone to our five-day celebration of Chattanooga Oktoberfest as only Chattanooga can do" - Chris Thomas, Executive Director of Chattanooga Market.
New for 2014
- Five days of festivity - A full schedule of events, Oktoberfest food selections, beer offerings, live entertainment and activities scheduled from Wednesday through Sunday is available at ChattanoogaOktoberfest.com.
- Artoberfestwill kick off the festival on Wednesday, October 15th. It's a celebration of the Chattanooga Art Community featuring works for display and sale from local artists and galleries. And don't miss the Chalk Art Competition too - watch these artists in action!
- A Festhalle Banquet is planned for Thursday, October 16. The ticketed event features a traditional feast filled with locally farm sourced and chef prepared traditional German foods under the direction of Chef Nathan Flynt. Favorites such as Currywurst, Spatzel, Kartoffelpuffer and Apfelstrudel are just a few of the traditional foods ticket holders will enjoy. Local and seasonal beers will be offered and live music and entertainment from Nashville's Oom-Pah-Sters. There will be limited capacity - it is recommended to buy tickets early ($45/each) online at ChattanoogaOktoberfest.com/festhalle-banquet.
- More live music for the week showcases the Chattanooga Wurstbrats, but also well known Oompah bands from Nashville and beyond. Folks can expect to polka dance, chicken dance and enjoy lively entertainment all week long on 2 stages.
Annual Favorites
- Chattanooga Oktoberfest 5k and 1 mile fun run. Held Saturday morning, October 18th, this energetic race is a great kick-off to the weekend. Athletes will enjoy early admission to the Oktoberfest celebration after the race ends.
- Bier Garten - A mainstay of the Oktoberfest, over 99 varieties of local and season beers will be offered throughout the week.
- Mr. and Ms. Chattanooga Oktoberfest - On Friday (October 17), folks are encouraged to come dawned in full Oktoberfest attire and enjoy this Polka Party kick -off to the weekend, where a new couple will be crowned for 2014 by popular vote. Contest at 7:00pm.
Chattanooga Oktoberfest is always free admission with free and ample parking and held at the First Tennessee Pavilion. A full schedule of events is available at ChattanoogaOktoberfest.com.