Austria Club Celebrates Oktoberfest with a Full House

Blogger Elke October 30, 2023 2 min read

Vancouver, BC – Written October 30, 2021 – The third and final Oktoberfest at the Austria Club Vancouver was held on a Saturday, October 29, 2023 at 6 pm in Richmond, BC. I attended the event with my youngest daughter:

Highlights included the Silverstars Band, a delicious dinner of Schnitzel or chicken and Schuhplattler entertainment.

There was delicious food and drink options: Stiegl, Warsteiner and Erdinger, among others. Also Schnaps and Ciders.

Terra Foods were there with some free samples. Their pickles were a bestseller!

At least 1/3 of the guests wore Tracht or Lederhosen/Dirndl and group photos were taken. Being at Oktoberfest and surrounded by people wearing “Tracht” and dirndls/lederhosen added an extra layer of authenticity, tradition, and charm to the festival, making it a truly immersive cultural experience.

The presence of these traditional outfits creates a sense of community and tradition. It’s a reminder of the event’s historical roots, which date back to the early 19th century.

Martina and her oldest Caitlin were there to greet everyone at the door. There was entertainment by the Schuhplattler Group and the Swiss Bells Musician:

In essence, playing Swiss bells is not just about the sound; it\’s about embracing and celebrating the Alpine culture, connecting with nature, and immersing oneself in a tradition that has been a vital part of life in the Swiss Alps for generations. Schuhplattler is not just a dance but a celebration of Austrian culture and heritage. It reflects the traditions of rural life and the joy of communal celebrations.

There was a fun picture frame:

We played games like the “Reverse Polka Dance” –

Here\s how it works:

Participants form two concentric circles, one for men and one for women. They move in opposite directions within their respective circles, typically to lively folk music.
When the music suddenly stops or a designated signal is given, participants in the inner and outer circles pair up with the person nearest to them.
These newly formed pairs then engage in a brief dance together, often incorporating elements of the traditional Schuhplattler, which may include clapping, footwork, and lively movements. (In the Austria Club this year, we just did regular dancing)
After dancing with a newfound partner for a short time, the music starts again or a new signal is given, prompting participants walking in circles only to find a new partner within their respective circles.
This process of forming pairs and dancing continues, creating a dynamic and social atmosphere where people interact with multiple dance partners throughout the evening.

It was hard to leave, the the party has to end at some point. Oktoberfest is known for its friendly and sociable atmosphere, and people often strike up conversations with fellow attendees, fostering a sense of camaraderie and togetherness. I saw old and new friends and had a great time.

UPCOMING EVENTS

What are some upcoming events to be aware of? A \”Weinlesefest\” is a German term that translates to \”wine harvest festival\” in English. It refers to a traditional celebration and festival that takes place in wine-producing regions, particularly in Germany and other German-speaking countries, like Austria, to mark the grape harvest. These festivals are a way to celebrate the successful culmination of the grape harvesting season and the beginning of the winemaking process.

Krampus is a mythical and often menacing figure that accompanies St. Nicholas during the Austrian Nikolausfest. While St. Nicholas rewards well-behaved children, Krampus is said to punish or frighten misbehaving children. Krampus is depicted as a horned, hairy, and sometimes grotesque creature, often resembling a demon or devil.

Nikolausfest is a beloved holiday in Austria and many other European countries, celebrated on December 6th. It honors St. Nicholas, the patron saint of children, who is known for his acts of kindness and gift-giving. In Austria, children eagerly anticipate Nikolausfest, as it is a time for them to receive small gifts and treats.

Remember, there is also a Lantern Festival held November 17th.