Celebrate All Things German this October

Oktoberfest brings to mind a crowded beer hall filled with large Germans shouting ‘Prost!’ and knocking thick beer steins together with gusto. But is this an event or a cultural celebration? We would argue the latter, and not just because we are looking for an excuse to drink beer and eat schnitzel.

It's been more than 200 years since the very first Oktoberfest, and how far we have come! Today, this event has evolved into a celebration of European food, drink, and your guessed it, beer. Each October, communities with any kind of German heritage (or those who wish they had) celebrate Oktoberfest across Europe and around the world, and even right here in Canada.

Have some fun and brighten your October with a different kind of Oktoberfest. Say prost! while you savour German foods, beer, and history with this self-serve European adventure.

First, the History

Oktoberfest began in October 1810 as a celebration of a royal marriage. Five days of celebration later and the Germans decided this was going to be a regular thing, but it wasn’t until the early 1900s that beer actually became the focus of the event. You can explore the German heritage and Canadian history at the Petawawa Heritage Village. Learn all about the founding families and how they made an impact on the building of the community, German style.

You’ll find the bulk of the German experiences are located in Lanark County or Renfrew County, and this is not by accident. It’s because these regions experienced an influx of German settlers early in Canada’s history, and these populations have grown, sharing their wonderful and colourful culture as they expanded.

German Beer 

You don’t need to travel to Germany to sample craft drinks made in the traditional German way. Sample Bavarian-inspired craft beers at Braumeister Brewing Co. in Carleton Place, inspired by a region that arguably produces some of the best beer in the world.

Schnitzel, Pierogies and More

Any celebration of the German culture wouldn’t be complete without diving deep into their culinary heritage (it’s a tough job, but someone has to do it). Germans love dining on rich, hearty dishes like schnitzel, German sausages, and their iconic stuffed dumplings, pierogies. You can savour the flavours of Germany through its food. Here is a rundown of the best places to eat, and what dishes you should order while you’re there.

The Granary Schnitzel Haus - Eganville

You’ll find this German gem in the small community of Eganville, and if it requires a detour to get there, you won’t regret it.

Wilno Tavern Restaurant - Wilno

Located in the oldest Polish settlement in Canada, this spot has more of a Polish-Kashub flavour than German, but it will be delicious nonetheless.

Café BC - Bancroft

Visitors to this unassuming café in Bancroft rave about the service, the portions and the quality of the food found here. And when it comes to German fare, this is the place you want to visit.

Maximilian Restaurant - Perth

Each year this restaurant draws visitors from all over, all eager to try a dish from a place that has been on the “Where to Eat in Canada” list for over 20 years.

 

My Place - Smiths Falls 

This hidden gem specializes in Eastern European fare, including traditional German dishes. Everything here will be authentic (and delicious).