Camp Richardson Historic Resort and Marina
South Lake Tahoe, Calif. – Oktoberfest, the yearly celebration of all things German will have a taste of California at Camp Richardson Historic Resort and Marina.
This popular annual event will feature German beers brewed here in the Golden State. Saint Archer Brewery of San Diego created a beer infused bratwurst exclusively for the event with its IPA. And another San Diego firm, Ballast Point’s Longfin Lager will be on pour.
Now in its 21st year, Oktoberfest at Camp Richardson offers a little something for all ages of the family from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Oct. 3-4. The resort is offering a free bike valet this year in front of the Mountain Sports Center, across from the Historic Hotel, and for the extra effort everyone who rides a bike can collect a coupon for a take out ice cream at Camp Richardson’s Ice Cream Parlor. Admission and parking is free for Oktoberfest.
Activities include German food and desserts, an owner and dog dress up contest, craft booths, face painting, pumpkin patch, balloon art, bouncy house, bungee platform, climbing wall, live music featuring the polka styling’s of the “Gruber Family Band,” and the event’s ever popular beer and wine garden. Added food choices this year include turkey legs and the Saint Archer IPA beer infused bratwurst. There’s also sausage eating contest. Interested contestants need to sign up by 1:30 p.m. at the pumpkin patch on Sunday. The showdown will take place at 3 p.m. on the main stage. Lederhosen are optional, but encouraged.
Other contests during the two-day festival range from beer stein holding to yodeling, with winners receiving gift certificates for food, activities and lodging at the resort. Food and beer can be purchased with Camp Richardson’s Oktoberfest tickets that are on sale behind the hotel at the event.
Camp Richardson is also debuting a new collectible beer stein in ceramic and glass as well as a wine glass for purchase. To fill the mug Oktoberfest goers can choose from seven different seasonal brews that range from Leingukegal’s Oktoberfest to Drakes Hefeweizen as well as Angry Orchard Hard Cider.
Vendor row is bigger than ever with a record 45 tents with many handcrafted and made in Tahoe choices like Tahoe Mountain Soap, Tahoe Bathworks, High Sierra Crystals, and RISE design apparel and hats.
There is still time to catch a ride on Camp Richardson’s Rum Runner cruise. Boats depart Saturday and Sunday at 1:30 and 3 p.m., for a 90-minute round trip cruise to Emerald Bay. Tickets are $59 for adults and $24 for children 12 and under. Spots are limited and reservations are recommended to guarantee a berth aboard the resort’s yacht.
The resort’s ice cream parlor is open through Oct. 4, and there is still time to enjoy Tahoe’s Indian summer on the lake. Boat rentals, paddleboards, and water activities are available out of the marina until Oct. 15.
Camp Richardson’s General Store is open Sunday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
For information on recreation, equipment rentals, lodging and packages call 800-544-1801or visit http://www.CampRichardson.com.