Ober Gatlinburg’s OktOBERfest
Fall is a magical time in the Smoky Mountains as nature ushers in the change of weather with some of the most breathtaking scenery imaginable. This transition goes hand in hand with the kick-off of some of our favorite festivals of the year. If you are looking to get outdoors and create wonderful family memories, Rafting in the Smokies recommends visiting two of this season’s “can’t miss” festivals; Ober Gatlinburg’s OktOBERfest and the Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff.
Celebrating authentic German food, fun, and tradition, Ober Gatlinburg’s 10th annual OktOBERfest takes place from September 23 – October 31, 2022. The Smoky Mountain’s premier fall festival is an indoor/outdoor experience, paying homage to Munich, Germany’s original Oktoberfest. With multiple activities occurring daily, you’ll want to be sure to plan ahead so you don’t miss anything.
Get ready to dance, sing along, yodel or just sit back and relax during daily performances from The Smoky Mountain Oompah Band, one of OktOBERfest’s main attractions. Dressed head to toe in lederhosen, the band captures the spirit and authenticity of Germany’s musical traditions. Performance times can be found here.
Any trip to OktOBERfest isn’t complete without sampling some of the Bavarian-inspired fare available from the Seasons of Ober Restaurant. Indulge yourself in all of the authentic staples such as strudel, pretzels, schnitzel, bratwurst, and sauerkraut. Arrive hungry and you’ll leave smiling!
After your fill of authentic German cuisine, adults 21 and over can enjoy beer tasting in the Bier Garten, which showcases different breweries each weekend. For $25, you can purchase a beer card, which entitles you to four 16 oz. beers or eight 7 oz. beers.
For patrons under 21, there is no shortage of entertainment. Multiple outdoor games and activities are open Monday through Sunday (weather permitting) and free face painting is available on Saturday and Sunday. After you’ve had your fill of games, take a stroll through the vendor tents, where you can look for the perfect souvenir. Serious beer stein collectors will want to stop by the “Beer Necessities” kiosk, where they will find a wide selection of steins and other beer-related accessories.
This festival has something for everyone, so don’t miss Ober Gatlinburg’s 13th annual OktOBERfest, where there is always plenty of food, fun, and music!
The Gatlinburg Chili Cook-off
Chili is arguably one of the most polarizing dishes ever created. Everyone has their own personal twist on this classic food staple, and there is no shortage of opinions on what ingredients are allowed in a proper batch of chili.
More often than not, a truly memorable chili is born out of a closely guarded family recipe, where tweaks here and there over generations have gone on to create some of the most complex and memorable creations imaginable.
If you’re a chili fan, you’ll definitely want to mark your calendar for The Gatlinburg Chili Cook-off presented by Bush’s Beans. The event takes place on November 10th from 5 p.m.–8 p.m. in Anakeesta. The event costs $10 to enter, or you can add tasting for $15. You’ll sample some of the best chili in the region and cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award!
