Lederhosen, Bavarian music, schnitzel, and lager come together during Riverhead Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest.
The local brewery hosts the biggest Oktoberfest in and around Kingston on September 28 from noon to 4 pm and 6 to 10 pm at the Slush Puppie Place (1 Tragically Hip Way). Last year, they held Oktoberfest at their brewery (631 Fortune Crescent). This year, they’re elevating the experience and bringing the party to downtown Kingston.
A German experience at Slush Puppie Place
Emulating an authentic German party, Riverhead’s Oktoberfest starts with the tapping of the keg–someone will use a wooden hammer to crack open a keg of beer.
Riverhead has created an Oktoberfest lager inspired by the drinks served at Bavarian celebrations in Munich or Berlin. At Oktoberfest in Germany, the beer is clean, light, and bready, similar to the brews you’ll try at the Slush Puppie Place. Arrive early as the first 500 customers receive a free stein to fill with their choice of Oktoberfest lager, Festbier lager, or gluten-free seltzer.
Once your stein is full of lager and you’ve grabbed a pretzel or slice of schnitzel, head to the communal tables adorned with a blue-and-white tablecloth, showcasing traditional Bavarian colours. You’ll meet fellow beer lovers at the family-style table nestled under a large white tent supplied by Encore Tents.
If you want guaranteed seating, purchase the VIP package. VIP customers receive a free stein upon entry and have their own pour station and private washroom.
More than just a beer festival
The celebration doesn’t end with smooth lager and salty snacks–there will be games to play, like cornhole and keg rolling. Test your muscular endurance during the stein-holding competition–you’ll hold a one-litre stein of beer in front of you for as long as possible. Challenge your strength with the hammer & nail game, in which you’ll drive a nail into a wooden beam.
As you challenge your friends to these German games, enjoy Bavarian music from Supersonic Hearts Band. When their accordions and horns cease, a DJ will take the stage to keep the party going.
So, strap on your lederhosen, put on your dirndls, grab your friends, and experience this grand display of German culture in Kingston. You can purchase your tickets online. You can also buy tickets in person at the Slush Puppie Place or Riverhead Brewing Company (631 Fortune Crescent).
Make the most of your time in Kingston
If you want to extend your stay in Kingston, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant and catch the Kingston Frontenacs’ home opener at Slush Puppie Place the night before (September 27). To learn more about Riverhead, read Meet the maker: Aaron Martin of Riverhead Brewing Company.
