Snowbird, UT – It’s a sure sign that the ski and snowboard season is just around the corner when Snowbird’s annual Oktoberfest takes place. This year, the Utah resort celebrates the festival’s 40thanniversary with eight weekends of family fun beginning this Saturday.
More than 50,000 visitors are expected to enjoy one of Utah’s largest festivals, which includes live music, dancing, authentic German food and children’s activities at Snowbird every Saturday, Sunday and Labor Day through Oct. 7.
“Oktoberfest continues to grow each year, and with new games, expanded grounds and new food and wine options, this year’s Oktoberfest will be better than ever,” said Dave Fields, Vice President of Resort Operations.
Snowbird is offering free Aerial Tram rides to active and past Military personnel and their families, as well as a discounted lodging rate of $89 plus taxes and fees for opening weekend, Aug. 18 and 19. Military personnel must present their military identification to the ticket office on the Plaza Deck for a Tram ride, or to the front desk of their lodging accommodations at check-in. Call (800) 453-3000 to book lodging.
Oktoberfest features live musical performances each day in the Snowbird Event Center tent from festive acts like the Salzburger Echo and Polkatones. Visitors will find art for all tastes at “Der Marktplatz,” where more than 35 local and regional artists display and sell handmade arts and crafts. Oktoberfest food includes bratwurst, sauerkraut, apple strudel, pretzels and Bavarian roasted almonds. New this year, Snowbird will be offering a wine and cheese booth, as well as Belgian Liége Waffles and Pommes Frites. Local Utah breweries will also be featured.
Special Oktoberfest entertainment and activities for children include a new Hi Striker giant hammer game, a roaming accordionist, Shan the Juggler/Magician, Dale the Yo-Yo Man, face painting, caricature artists, and more. Alp horns will chorus the festivities daily at 3:15 p.m. from Hidden Peak.
Grand Oktoberfest will take place Labor Day weekend, and will feature Art Brogli, an original Snowbird Oktoberfest performer, who will yodel and play the accordion. A Grand Procession will take place at 2:10 p.m., with the official keg tapping and toasting.
Admission to Oktoberfest is free. Hours are noon to 6 p.m.