Lake George Oktoberfest 2024: 'largest ever'

LAKE GEORGE | As many as 10,000 people were drawn to the Lake George Oktoberfest street festival this last weekend, to enjoy traditional German music, food, beer, and dancing — and to browse wares of craft vendors. John Carr, founder of the local Adirondack Pub & Brewery and an organizer of the Oktoberfest for 20-plus years, said the 2024 edition of the three-day fall fest drew the largest crowds in its history. "The weather has been amazing, and with beautiful fall colors and sunshine combined with our Oktoberfest band lineup, it's been a great weekend for everybody," he said. "People recognize that Lake George this time of year is just a beautiful place to be, and it's a lot of fun here. It's great to see so many people out having such a great time." People of all ages enjoyed the festive atmosphere. The event included pumpkin decorating for children, as well as the traditional giant slide, bounce houses, and other children's activities. A portion of the event's proceeds were donated to the Ben Osborn Fund, a foundation honoring Lake George High School 2002 graduate Ben Osborn who was killed in 2010 in Afghanistan while on a U.S. Army combat mission. Osborn was credited for sacrificing his life to save the lives of his fellow soldiers. The foundation named in his honor assists children in need across Warren, Essex, and neighboring counties. Bonnie Decook, Oktoberfest craft show and site coordinator, said that about 50 volunteers representing area charities had helped organize the event, which hosted 40 craft vendors, the most ever. "There are people of all ages having fun," she said On Oct. 12. "This is our largest crowd ever." People weren't the only creatures enjoying Lake George Oktoberfest, as canine companions were also welcome. "Dogs are having a great time today," said Lisa Giknis, proprietor of The Dog Cabin on Montcalm Street, noting that festival attendees were flowing into her store, buying canine sweaters, toys, and other items. "This Oktoberfest helps so much because it's held right on Canada Street," she said. Other local businesses appeared to be busy as well. Carr said that over two decades, Lake George Oktoberfest has advanced efforts to make Lake George a year-round destination. He said this year's Oktoberfest featured far more tents, and twice as many picnic tables to accommodate the larger crowds that were anticipated. "It's awesome to bring so many people into Lake Goerge during what we used to call the 'off-season,'" he said. ENCORE OKTOBERFEST SET FOR OCT. 19 Adirondack Pub & Brewery will be holding its own Oktoberfest celebration from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19 at 33 Canada St. in Lake George. In addition to Bavarian food, music and dancing, the event features endless samplings of beer provided by 10 or more area craft breweries. A costume contest, plus axe-throwing and wood-sawing competitions are also featured, Carr said. "Next weekend's Oktoberfest has more of an adult 'vibe,'" he said. Partial proceeds of this subsequent event are also donated to the Ben Osborn Fund.

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Lake George Oktoberfest 2024: 'largest ever'

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