In 1810, Oktoberfest, one of the biggest festivals in the world, began as a wedding celebration for Bavarian Crown Prince Louis and Princess Therese in Munich. The uplifting event featured horse races and attracted large crowds, leading to traditions and immense popularity. The joyous event is often called d'Wiesn, after the colloquial name for the word fairgrounds – a place where the festivities took place.
Today, keeping with the theme of a huge autumn party, Oktoberfest is the world's largest Volksfest, featuring a beer festival and a traveling carnival, and is held annually in Munich, Bavaria, from mid-or-late-September to the first Sunday in October.
A major attraction worldwide, Oktoberfest in Munich attracts more than six million national and international visitors for one massive fall party. Today, Oktoberfest is a huge day and night event that is celebrated far and wide with non-stop entertainment, music, traditional food, and beer, amid other lively activities and a myriad of memorable events.
The German International School Washington D.C. has long maintained a tradition of celebrating Oktoberfest. For 15 years, the school has proudly hosted the 5K Oktoberfest Run, blending the excitement of a race with the festive spirit of the season.
With a backdrop of autumn leaves bursting into a rainbow of plum, orange, red, yellow, and gold hues on a crisp fall day, this event brings the community together to celebrate German culture, health, and camaraderie. This year’s run will take place on September 28, on the school’s scenic campus located at 8617 Chateau Drive in Potomac, MD. Participants will enjoy a beautiful race course followed by an Oktoberfest celebration featuring traditional German fare, refreshing beverages, and a variety of entertainment.
“The event emphasizes not just fitness but also cultural exchange and community spirit,” says Brunela Wong, Event and Community Engagement Coordinator for the German International School. “Join us for a day of fun, fitness, and tradition. We look forward to celebrating with you!”
The 5K Oktoberfest Run has deep roots at the school, growing into a beloved tradition that draws families, alumni, and friends from across the D.C. area. “Our run celebrates the school’s German heritage while welcoming people from all backgrounds to enjoy a traditional German festival,” Wong adds.
Sign up for this year's run at https://giswashington.org/oktoberfest-run.html. The school’s website provides details on registration, race day logistics, and sponsorship opportunities.
Celebrate OAK-toberfest at Lone Oak Farm
The much-anticipated OAK-toberfest at Lone Oak Farm is ready to delight locals and visitors from the DMV and beyond. The delightful and memorable event kicks off on Friday, September 13, and runs through Thursday, October 31. Among the many offerings and events, there will be live music every weekend and a variety of tasty items from local food trucks.
Offerings also include a fabulous Punkin' Chunkin' Cannon blasting off on select weekends, and a Pumpkin Patch where small pumpkins sell for $6 each and large pumpkins are $10 each.
Here is more of what to expect at OAK-toberfest:
-Sip on the delicious OAK-toberfest beer, including Stingy Jack Belgian Style Pumpkin Ale (6.6% ABV) and the OAK-toberfest Marzen (5.3% ABV).
-Pair a pint with a tasty Brat on a Pretzel Bun, complete with a side of potato salad and sauerkraut.
-Treat yourself to the OAK-toberfest Stein Deal ($16 filled with your favorite Lone Oak libation, $1 off refills).
-Try one of Fallen Oak Distilling Company’s new craft cocktails or mocktails
For more information, visit: loneoakbrewingco.com/events.
“Our 5K run celebrates the school’s German heritage while welcoming people from all backgrounds to enjoy a traditional German festival.”