OKTOBERFEST

OKTOBERFEST. A celebration of German culture, Oktoberfest has roots dating to October 12, 1810 and the celebration of the marriage of Ludwig I of Bavaria to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hilburghausen. The celebration was repeated annually beginning the third week in September and ending on the first Sunday of October. The tradition has become a celebration of the beginning of the month. (1)

The celebration also had much to do with beer production. In the early 19th century, lager beer could only be fermented in colder months and the use of caves. Ale which needed warmer temperatures for fermentation was consumed during the summer. Oktoberfest for beer drinkers signaled the annual return of lagers. (2)

While the authentic Oktoberfest was held in Munich, "the first time for Oktoberfest beer (Lowenbrau) to be imported into America anywhere", according to benefit general chairperson Mrs. Hans Sack, occurred on September 19, 1969 for the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Auxiliary. While much smaller than the German event, the Dubuque version had many authentic touches. Table decorations included 100 "bier" coasters and 200 small gold and black flags--the colors of Bavaria. These were sent by the City of Munich with thirty colorful posters and 12 yards of bunting in the traditional Bavarian blue and white diamond design. Traditional beer steins from Bavaria were sold at the dance which featured the orchestra of Paul HEMMER. An invitation was not needed and the event was open to the public at $6.00 per couple. Proceeds went to support the [DUBUQUE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA]]. (3)

DANK (Deutsch-Amerikanischer National Kongress) sponsored an Octoberfest (different spelling) dance in 1977. (4)

An Oktoberfest was held in Dubuque in 2009 to showcase the rehabilitation of the several downtown businesses including L. May Eatery, Salsa's Mexican Restaurant and Jitterz Coffee & Cafe. PREMIER BANK, a major sponsor, then partnered with Camp Albrecht Acres to make the event a fundraiser for the camp. (5)

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Source:

1. Frenzel, Anthony. "The Many Faces of Oktoberfest," Tri-States' German Heritage published by the Telegraph Herald, June 2018, p. 49

2. Ibid., p. 50

3. "Dubuque's Oktoberfest," Telegraph-Herald, September 9, 1969, p. 4

4. "Octoberfest Dance," Telegraph Herald, October 20, 1977, p. 6

5. Frenzel, p. 49