Knocks, brats and flying kegs: Oktoberfest draws crowds to Lake George Village

It was a damp start for The Lake George Village Oktoberfest this Saturday, October 6, but at noon, just as the beer taps began to flow, the clouds lifted and brilliant sunshine replaced the morning drizzle.

Village DPW employees were up at dawn erecting barricades across Canada Street, and by 10 a.m. a massive beer garden, complete with a stage for live music, replaced the four lanes of traffic that usually keep pedestrians on the sidewalks. One reveler, hoisting a foaming cup of Bear Naked Ale, commented, “This is so weird, walking in the middle of Canada Street without having to look out for traffic.”

Tony’s Polka Band provided entertainment Saturday afternoon as the Adirondack Pub and Brewery served up sausages with sauerkraut, German potato salad, and an endless stream of beer.

Activities for children included pony rides, bounce houses and pumpkin decorating. Adults competed in keg-tossing, stein hoisting and barrel rolling contests. Shops along Canada Street set out merchandise along the sidewalks, offering end-of-season discounts on gifts, jewelry and clothing. Enterprising children sold lemonade from a sidewalk kiosk. Vendors set up on the street selling crafts, food items, jewelry and sunglasses.

This is the second year for the Columbus Day weekend Oktoberfest celebration. Last year the event was held on Beach Road. The festival continues through Sunday, October 7.