This past weekend was blessed with warm temperatures, sunny skies and the 11th annual rendition of Beau’s Oktoberfest. This spectacular nod to Bavarian traditions and the mighty hop takes place at the Vankleek Hill Fairgrounds. Beer lovers from Montreal, Ottawa and beyond congregate for two days of merriment and having a last hurrah of Summer.
As one would suspect, the choice of brewed beverages is bountiful, with Beau’s own fare featured along with selections from notable breweries in the Crafthaus. Delectable cuisine produced by local restaurants is also on offer, from pretzels to schnitzel to mac and cheese spaetzle. There are also family-friendly activities, a slew of midway games, classes at the School of Bock, and the ever-popular stein holding and keg tossing competitions. If that wasn’t enough, there was music, featuring a full card of Canadian talent.
This year, the two-day festival was headlined by indie-rockers The New Pornographers and hip-hop Juno winner Shad. Also appearing on the main stage, hosted by Jeremy Taggart and Jonathan Torrens, were Birds of Bellwoods, Caravane, Jenn Grant, John Jacob Magistery. and What If Elephants. On the smaller (though appreciably louder) Black Forest stage, numerous bands like Pale Lips and The Peelers were giving the mosh pit participants a grand time. This more secluded side of the fairgrounds housed the Vans skateboarding halfpipe, artists painting amazing murals, along with a barber shop, golf putt games and more.
The festival also has a charitable side, featuring a bike ride that raises funds for The United Way, and other charity initiatives for local partners.
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- Birds of Bellwoods perform at Beau’s Oktoberfest
