Illustration by Ryan Greis
Picture Oktoberfest, and you likely envision German festival–inspired films: the boot-shooting antics of Beerfest or Clark Griswold’s disastrous dancing in European Vacation. Here in Missouri, however, the German tradition isn’t as straightforward as a plate of brats and kraut. Consider Hermann. Many years ago, the small town’s officials cracked down on revelers by passing an open-container ordinance, effectively putting the kibosh on eager partiers. In its sixth year, however, Soulard Oktoberfest remains quite the opposite. Here’s how German translates at the two festivals.
Hermann
Dates: First four weekends of October
Estimated Attendance: 7,000+
Typical Visitor: Doe-eyed couples, wine-loving families, and friends
Scenery: Autumn leaves lining the Missouri River
Drink of Choice: Hermannhof’s White Lady of Starkenburg
Entertainment: Oompah bands and window-shopping
Hot Spot: Hermannhof Winery
Website’s Message: “Have a good time, and please remember…if you choose to drink, do so responsibly.”
Soulard
Dates: October 9 to 11
Estimated Attendance: 20,000+
Typical Visitor: Raucous revelers and bons vivants
Scenery: Bustling crowds lining Soulard’s streets
Drink of Choice: 1-liter mug of Hofbraü Oktoberfestbier
Entertainment: 14 bands performing 30-plus concerts; buxom Soulard Oktoberfest Fräuleins; Miss Oktoberfest contest
Hot Spot: Any of four beer tents
Website’s Message: “The fastest-growing Oktoberfest in America!”
