Oktoberfest celebrations highlight 4 Wing ties to Germany

Oktoberfest celebrations are beginning out at 4 Wing Cold Lake.

The air base is continuing its tradition of celebrating German heritage on Saturday with its annual Volksmarch Saturday afternoon.

Volksmarch translates from the German for “People’s Walk” and is a time-honoured part of their culture.

The walk is meant to be social — enjoying the outdoors while meeting new people. There are two walk distances, a 5km through the wooded area around CFB Cold Lake, or the 2.3km paved trail walk.

There are ties to Canadian air bases and with post-war Germany. Cold Lake also has a sister city in Hügulsheim, Germany.

That night, the real socializing happens. Come garbed in your lederhosen and dirndls with a family-friendly Oktoberfest extravanganza in the event tent at Club 41.

Each ticket holder will receive a complimentary Oktoberfest stein and expect a fine Bavarian meal of roasted ham, wurst (German sausage), rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, German potato salad, and spätzle (European egg noodles).

Meanwhile, the 4 Wing band will set the mood, to be followed by the Sound Flight Dance Band for an evening of dance.

Axes and Apples will also be on-site for axe throwing.

Its a day of celebration for German culture.

Registrations begin 12:15pm with the walking starting at 1:00pm.

Tickets for the evening get-together are $35 and can be bought at the Welcome Desk at the Col J.J. Parr Sports Centre or Club 41 Mess Office. The Volksmarch is free.