Food

Oktoberfest

A Bavarian blowout

Oktoberfest is about more than the drinking of beer out of oversized steins, and at a number of related events taking place in the near future, there will be plenty of opportunities to find out what else the seasonal soirees have to offer.

Although the annual Bier on the Pier happening from 5-9pm Fri., Oct. 5 and 12-6pm Sat., Oct. 6 at the Historic Port Warehouse in Anacortes isn’t officially billed as an “Oktoberfest,” the use of the Germanic translation for the word beer is a hint that the 30 breweries and 10 cideries participating in the festival will feature plenty of fall flavors. Throw in live music, food choices and a commemorative glass, and a good time is assured. Cost: $25-$35. Info: http://www.anacortes.org/bier-on-the-pier

From 6-8pm Fri., Oct. 5 a Camptoberfest taking place in Bow at Camp Kirby will put the “fun” in fundraising. At the 21-and-older event, the wearing of lederhosen is encouraged, as is the ingestion of brats, beer and cider. Plus, if you want to keep Oktoberfesting, add an extra $10 on to your donation, and set up camp. Cost: $20 suggested donation Info: http://www.campfiresamishcouncil.org

A Bellingham Oktoberfest taking place from 6-10pm Sat., Oct. 6 at Bellingham Technical College’s Settlemyer Hall will not only help the Opportunity Council raise funds for the Volunteer Center of Whatcom County, but also provide a night of autumnal action via craft beers from local and regional breweries, festive activities, live music and a variety of food. Cost: $25-$35 Info: http://www.oppco.org/oktoberfest

Another Oktoberfest happens from 6-10pm that same night at B-Town Kitchen & Raw Bar, located inside the Four Points by Sheraton hotel on Lakeway Drive. Here, the focus will be more on the food, with chef Bryce Lamb offering everything from Bavarian pretzels to cured meat plates, smoked trout, Flammkuchen (German-style pizza), bratwurts, apple strudel, and jaeger schnitzel. In other words, come hungry. Cost: Varies by dish Info: http://www.btownkitchen.com/menu/oktoberfest

A week later, the 36th annual Deming Log Show Oktoberfest happens from 12pm-1am Fri, Oct 13 and Sat., Oct. 14 at the Log Show Grounds on Cedarville Road. The Bavarian-style fundraiser for busted-up loggers includes live music from the Polkatones, dancers, a Swiss Alphorn blowing contest, dancing, German food and drink, a beer garden, free RV parking, and more. Cost: $12-$13 Info: http://www.facebook.com/events

Finally, the third annual Bellingham Hoptoberfest brings a bounty of bier to town from 5-10pm Sat., Oct. 20 at the Civic Way Sportsplex. Billing itself as the “premium fall craft beer event in Whatcom County,” the oversized indoor space will feature liquid gold from an array of breweries, food truck fare and a selection of smoked meats from Hempler’s. “Invite your friends, spread the word and create the party,” organizers say. Sounds like a plan. Cost: $20-$25 ($35 for VIP tickets) Info: http://www.bellinghamsportsplex.com

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