FORT LORAMIE — After years of celebration, the German Heritage Days fell by the wayside just to be renewed 14 years ago. The festival is now going strong. This year’s festival is Sept. 21-22.
“This festival was started years ago by the Fort Loramie Historical society and was rekindled by the Fort Loramie Chamber of Commerce in 2004,” said Lynn Gusching, chairman of the festival board.
The festival’s main purpose is to celebrate the German heritage of the town and people in the area. In pursuit of this end the festival is filled with German foods and German beers. Some of the beers available include Hofbrau Oktoberfest, Hofbrau Original, Hofbrau Dunkel, Paulaner Hefe, Warsteiner Dunkel, Ayinger Bavarian Pils and Woodchuck Amber Cider. The site is not laden with vendors. The food and drink are supplied by the Fort Loramie Chamber of Commerce.
In addition to the food and drink, the festival is enhanced by the addition of music. On Friday, Sept. 21, Mark Cantwil will preform from 6 to 8 p.m. followed by Route 161 Happy Wanderers from 8 p.m. to midnight. The festival opens at 4 p.m. with D.J. Obie providing music.
Saturday, Sept. 22, will see Alpen Echos from 4 to 8 p.m.and Taylor Westerheide with Rare Form from 9 p.m. to midnight. Saturday also features a car show from 9 a.m. to noon, a 5K at 11 a.m., and the stein hoisting contest at 8 p.m.
“Come out in your Lederhosen or Dirndl and enjoy the atmosphere. Come out for a beautiful fall weekend and enjoy the German food, drink and music in a community that is warm and friendly,” said Gusching.
