OKTOBERFEST IN PEORIA

Where can you go to find authentic food, live performances and lederhosen? Just ask attendees of Peoria Oktoberfest, because the festival, held this past weekend at the Peoria Riverfront, featured all of the above and more.
Since its inception in Germany more than 200 years ago, Oktoberfest has grown from a small event to a massive gathering to which millions of people flock each year.
People from all over the world assemble in Munich, Germany each year for the festivities.
Ending on the first Sunday in October and lasting for 16 days, the Munich festival has become famous for its beer, rides, vendors and entertainment that cannot be found anywhere else.
The festival’s signature beer draws huge crowds due to its unique taste; people love it for its strong taste and dark texture.
It took over a century for America to catch on to this event. According to its official website, the first Oktoberfest in America reportedly took place in Jessup, Md. at Blobs Park about a century after the first one in Munich.
From then on, Oktoberfest has spread all over the United States, and each festival features variations on the traditional German one.
Peoria was able to put its own spin on the festival, with featured events such as a 5K run, a log sawing competition and performances from bands like the Obenheimer Express Band.
Similar to the first Oktoberfest in 1818, festival-goers were able to ride carnival rides and experience authentic German culture.
While the Peoria event is a much smaller affair, none of the signature charm is lost as it is still a place to find outstanding food, beer and great company. What more is needed?