Oktoberfest has returned to New Orleans, bringing German food, beer and traditions to Moss Street on the banks of Bayou St. John.
The festival offers locals a chance to embrace German culture, with attendees donning traditional lederhosen and dirndls, enjoying bratwurst, sauerkraut and pretzels and participating in lively activities.
“Lederhosen look like they might be uncomfortable, but maybe they take a little breaking in, but then they become very comfortable,” said Stewart Eastman, a volunteer.
Bartender Kimberly Brunet demonstrated how to pour the perfect beer to WDSU reporter Pari Apostolakos.
“You just tilt the glass and let it start filling up and as it gets closer to the top, you’ll straighten it out,” Brunet said. “Well, we’re going to let it settle. This should be about perfect.”
Oktoberfest NOLA is the largest annual fundraiser for Deutsches Haus, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving German culture in southeast Louisiana.
“Not only does it raise money for the house, it raises awareness, and it lets us share our rich traditions with everybody who wants to come,” said Peggy Villemarette, a Deutsches Haus board member. “My favorite part of it is just having everybody from all walks of life just enjoying each other. Our tables are long and different families just join up at the same table. They end up becoming friends.”
The festivities continue through Sunday and will resume next weekend. Admission is $10, but kids, first responders, and active military members can attend for free.
READ MORE:Oktoberfest returns to New Orleans with food, beer and German traditions
