Oktoberfest in Rehoboth Beach

Oktoberfest is a centuries-old celebration in Germany that lasts about two weeks near the end of September and into October. The celebration first began with serving several types of Oktoberfestbiers, or beers, back in 1818 and ended with a horse race.

Since then, countries and states across the globe have adapted their own version of the event, and Rehoboth is no different. This year, several area bars and restaurants will join the festivities, offering special German dishes and drink specials during the event.

"We are starting off with just the restaurants getting involved," said Fay Jacobs, executive director of Rehoboth Beach Main Street, a nonprofit organization that aims to promote area businesses. "Next year, we hope to have more family events."

So far, 21 local restaurants have agreed to participate in creating a German inspired menus, special beers and party favors. The event, sponsored by Leinenkugel and Blue Moon (Pumpkin Ale), will also have raffles at various venues where the proceeds benefit local charity, Bear Hugs for Babies.

Dos Locos, located at 208 Rehoboth Ave., will have specialty drinks Sam Adams Oktoberfest beer and pumpkin and caramel apple margaritas.

"We've been making these margaritas for eight years," owner Joe Zuber said. "They're rich and on the sweeter side."

The restaurant will also incorporate German foods with their traditional Tex-Mex menu. "We're going to offer bratwurst fajitias, the traditional bratwurst and sauerkraut sandwich and pumpkin flan," Zuber said.

Award-winning Abstractions, also located on Rehoboth Avenue, is slated to prepare a German-inspired Asian sour beef and dumpling. They also plan to serve Sam Adams Oktoberfest beer on special.

Owner Kim Capano, wishing for a weekend of nice weather, said she hopes people will come out and enjoy this first-time event.

"Since we're an Asian restaurant it's a bit of a stretch, but we will have specials," she said.

Executive chef Keith Harpster, will be making a german sour beef dish with homemade potato dumplings.

"I have a few ideas to make this German dish Asian, so I'm just going to play around with it," Harpster said.

Along with their German-themed offerings, Abstractions will add new martinis to their drink menu.

"We're going to try out an apple martini," Capano said. "We will also have happy hour that weekend from 5 to 6:30 p.m., offering $5 martinis and half price select sushi rolls."

source: delmarvanow.com