Head to Yachats

Have a lager than like Oktoberfest weekend

By Patrick Alexander and ChatGPT

Oregon Coast TODAY

Yachats is putting itself front and center this fall, hosting its inaugural Oktoberfest celebration this weekend. In the spirit of trying new things, we decided to see what everyone’s favorite artificial intelligence chatbot ChatGPT has to say on the subject.

Oregon Coast TODAY: What makes Yachats a great location for an Oktoberfest celebration?

ChatGPT: To evaluate why Yachats might be a great location for an Oktoberfest celebration, consider the following potential factors:

Scenic Coastal Setting: Yachats is known for its stunning coastal scenery, including rugged cliffs, tidal pools, and beautiful ocean views. Holding an Oktoberfest celebration in such a picturesque location can provide a unique and beautiful backdrop for the event.

Outdoor Venues: The Oregon Coast often experiences mild and pleasant weather in the fall, making it suitable for outdoor events. Yachats might have parks, gardens, or outdoor spaces that can be utilized for Oktoberfest festivities, allowing attendees to enjoy the natural surroundings. (Well done ChatGPT! The event will indeed include an invigorating Volkswalk, giving guests the chance to enjoy Yachats’ vibrant downtown while getting some fresh air at the same time).

Local Craft Breweries: Oregon is famous for its craft beer scene, and the coastal region is no exception. If Yachats has local breweries or brewpubs, they could contribute to the Oktoberfest celebration by offering a variety of craft beers, including traditional German styles. (Right again ChatGPT! The festival’s official brew is the handiwork of Yachats Brewing, which will host a beer tasting and homebrew workshop on Saturday afternoon).

Community Spirit: Yachats is known for its tight-knit community and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. This sense of community could enhance the social and inclusive aspects of an Oktoberfest celebration, making it an enjoyable experience for both residents and visitors.

Opportunity for a Unique Twist: While Yachats may not have the same Bavarian heritage as some other places associated with Oktoberfest, this could be an opportunity to put a unique, coastal spin on the celebration. Incorporating local seafood, beach bonfires, or maritime-themed decorations could set it apart from traditional Oktoberfest events. (Crab schnitzel, anyone? Well, maybe next year…)

Cultural Exchange: Hosting an Oktoberfest celebration in a town not traditionally associated with the festival can promote cultural exchange and appreciation. It can introduce residents and visitors to German culture, traditions, and cuisine in a novel setting.

Event schedule

Friday, Sept. 29

The Oktoberfest celebrations will begin at 5 pm at the Yachats Commons with the traditional Tapping of the Keg and the singing of the Yachats Oktoberfest Song. Brewmeister Walter Potter of Yachats Brewing will crack open the keg and present the first pour for approval to Yachats Mayor Craig Berdie.

Once the brew is approved, the party will begin in earnest with a Polkafest from 5:30 to 9 pm, offering dancing, beer, brats and more. If you don’t know how to polka, don’t worry — instructors are on hand to show you the steps.

Saturday, Sept. 30

Today’s action begins with a head-clearing Volkswalk from 11 am to 2 pm. Stop by the Yachats Commons Pavilion to buy your Volkswalk Passport for $5, then visit participating businesses and gather your passport stamps. Turn in your completed passport by 2 pm to be entered into a raffle for an authentic German souvenir.

Beach Daisy Wine will host a wine tasting from 1 to 3 pm, with a variety of specially selected German wines and nibbles on offer.

Meanwhile at Yachats Brewing, also from 1 to 3 pm, guests can sample the special Yachats Oktoberfest Brew as well as a selection of other beers from the tap list. At 2 pm, Brewmaster Walter Potter will lead a Homebrew Workshop.

Action then returns to the Yachats Commons for the Oktoberfest Dinner, with the first seating from 4 to 6 pm, followed by a second from 7 to 9 pm. Guests at both seatings will be treated to music, dancing, beer, brats, other traditional German foods and a commemorative Yachats Oktoberfest beer stein. Tickets, $40, are available at www.yachats.org.

Sunday, Oct. 1

The festival closes with a Traditional Harvest Worship at 10 am at Yachats Community Presbyterian Church, with a reception to follow.