Cruise Oktoberfest Tahoe Style at Camp Richardson

It began with a royal Bavarian marriage and evolved into a world famous festival – Oktoberfest. Munich's great tradition returns to the shores of Lake Tahoe for Camp Richardson's 19th Annual Oktoberfest, Oct. 5-6.

New this year is a special Emerald Bay Beer Cruise with featured Oktoberfest brews, signature mugs and German pretzels. Boats depart Saturday and Sunday at 1 and 3:30 p.m., for a 90-minute round trip cruise to Emerald Bay. Lederhosen are optional, but encouraged. Tickets are $44 for adults and $19 for children 12 and under. Spots are limited and reservations are recommended to guarantee stein curls while cruising aboard the resort’s yacht.

Camp Richardson offers fun for the whole family, including the family dog, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 5-6. Activities include an owner and dog dress up contest, German food and desserts, craft booths, face painting, pumpkin patch, bouncy house, live music featuring the polka styling’s of the “Gruber Family Band,” and the event’s ever popular beer and wine garden. And for those who can never get enough of good suds there are IPA infused bratwurst. There will be shaved ice Sun Runners for the kids and added salad choices and chicken.

Humans can also get in on various contests during the two-day festival that range from beer stein holding to yodeling, with winners receiving gift certificates for food, activities and lodging at the resort. Admission and parking in the Eagles Nest campground is free for Oktoberfest. Bikers will have easy access from town on the bike path and there are plenty of areas to lock up bikes.

Food, beer, and steins can be purchased with Camp Richardson’s Oktoberfest tickets available at the event.