Dirndls, lederhosen, yodeling, steins of beer, oomph music and savory German food is what Octoberfests are made of. At “Bier on the Pier” these customs are honored when 30 Northwest breweries arrive in Anacortes for two days October 4th from 5-9 p.m. and October 5th from 12-6 p.m. for bier, bretzen and song.
This year, the largest brewer participated Oktoberfest celebration in Washington State, has added another Alpine tradition, yodeling. Show off your yodeling skills on Saturday at 3 p.m. For tips, watch the video posted on Bier on the Pier Facebook from Takeo Ischi, as well as, all sorts of Oktoberfest posts, including chances to win free tickets and fun beer factoids. Who knew bottle caps were invented in 1892? On Friday and Saturday strut your finest German tracht in the costume contest.
Brewers from all over the state offer a range of beer flavors, including salty, floral, caramel, grassy, grainy and more. Sample and smell. Taste and enjoy. Ask the brewer about the malt character, aromas, balance and complexities of fabulous Washington beers. Submit favorites for the People’s Choice Awards given each day to a brewery and beer and in the process enter to win “A Trip Back to Anacortes.”
Get carried away to the Old World with the sounds of Hugo Helmer Accordion Band on Friday and Pickled Herrings on Saturday. Waltz to Bavarian music, past the ambers toward the scrumptious smells of bretzen, wurst, pizza and German fare in two decorated food tents. Relax on the pier, sit with friends, and munch on delicious food from The Juicy Dog, Anchor Catering, Papa Murphy’s and Swinomish Casino and take in the views of Guemes Channel and the San Juan Islands. Let Oktoberfest “Bier on the Pier” transport you to a truly Northwest style of this German tradition.
Anacortes Oktoberfest Tickets
October 4th, 5-9 p.m., and October 5th, 12-6 p.m. Tickets are available at Eventbrite, the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce and at the door. Advanced purchased one day pass is $20, or $25 at the door. Two day pass tickets are $35 for advanced and $45 at the door. Each ticket includes six tasting pours, a commemorative glass, and extra tickets are available for purchase.
“Bier on the Pier” is sponsored by the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce and co-organizer Rockfish Grill/Anacortes Brewery. It’s held at the Port of Anacortes Transit Shed Warehouse (1st & Commercial) with views of the Guemes Channel and San Juan Islands.