Oktoberfest New Glarus WI

Friday, Sept. 25, 2015 - 5:25 p.m.

New Glarus, Wis. - Brats, beer, and pretzels. These are all staples of New Glarus Oktoberfest. This three day event is nestled in a charming Swiss settlement about 30 minutes southwest of Madison.

If you didn't know better, you would think you've traveled overseas to Switzerland. For 21 years, New Glarus Brewing Company and the Chamber have tapped into their Swiss heritage.

"Oktoberfest is actually German, but we have a great Swiss town that is nice enough to host us, " said Deb Carey, the founder and president of New Glarus Brewing Company.

While many communities across the state have an Oktoberfest celebration, this one offers something unique.

"I think it is really special and for this reason. The original Oktoberfest was a celebration for King Ludwig's wedding. It was a small town event. There are a lot of Oktoberfests that are a little out of control, but this one isn't so much much about drinking." Carey continued, "It really is about being together with your neighbors. There are lots of families and people bring their pets down. It's very easy going."

There's live music, food, a keg tapping, shopping, wagon rides, and chainsaw carvings.

The New Glarus Police Dept. is also offering safe rides. It's being offered in conjunction with Green Cab and a local business. Chief Burt Boldebuck said, "The rides go from Friday night and Saturday night from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. It's free of charge. We try to limit it to a six to seven mile radius of New Glarus."