Oktoberfest is serious business for those of German descent and for those who enjoy great beer and brats. No matter which category you fall into, you’ll be interested to know that the Helen Georgia Oktoberfest, the longest-running Oktoberfest in the United States, is happening in just a few short weeks. One of the best North Georgia fall festivals, the Helen Oktoberfest brings visitors from all around the area and out of state. Fall in the North Georgia Mountains is terrific in and of itself, but North Georgia events like Oktoberfest in Helen Georgia are what make the season special.
The Helen Georgia Oktoberfest begins in September and runs through early November. The event kicks off with a parade down Main Street, followed by the “Tapping of the Keg” at the Helen Festhalle. Though worthwhile, the Oktoberfest isn’t the only reason to visit Helen. There are several other things to do in Helen GA, and the surrounding areas that are also worth your time. Once you’ve experienced this quaint German town in GA, take time to discover all the other attractions Helen has to offer.
Our Bed and Breakfast Near Helen GA is the perfect home base while you celebrate the lively Helen Oktoberfest and explore the beauty of the surrounding area. After a day of festivities, food, and music, there’s nothing better than returning to the quiet charm of our inn, settling into a rocking chair on the porch, and letting the mountain air refresh your spirit. It’s a peaceful retreat that helps you recharge and prepare for another day of adventure in the North Georgia Mountains. Book your stay today!
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Get Excited for the Helen Georgia Oktoberfest
There are many sights, sounds, and tastes of the Helen Georgia Oktoberfest. The main events during Oktoberfest are held in the Helen Festhalle, a large hall with a concession area and main stage. During the festival, visitors flock to the Festhalle to enjoy the sounds of various German-style bands entertaining the crowd with popular polka tunes. You’ll enjoy listening to the bands play traditional instruments, including trumpets, tubas, and the accordion, to create the fun, upbeat sounds of the polka.
Between the lively music and the sight of lederhosen, you’ll be ready to hop on your feet for a spin or two around the dance floor. Traditional tunes fill the air, with the waltz, polka, and of course, the ever-popular Chicken Dance leading the way as festival favorites. The energetic German bands keep the atmosphere festive, creating a soundtrack that’s as joyful as it is infectious. Whether you’re an experienced dancer or just learning the steps, the music makes it impossible not to join in the fun.
After a spin or two around the dance floor, you’ll be ready to savor the delicious German fare of the Helen Georgia Oktoberfest. Grab a seat at one of the long communal tables and enjoy a Bratwurst on a roll with your favorite beverage. Indulge in a traditional spread of red cabbage, sauerkraut, and German potato salad, and be sure to save room for a warm Bavarian pretzel. The festive table rows are perfect for accommodating large groups and creating a lively, family-style dining experience.
One of the most popular things to do in Helen while at the Helen Georgia Oktoberfest is, of course, to drink a bier. The Helen Festhalle is set up with several taps and various choices of beer, like Kolsch, Pilsner, Weizen, and Schwarzbier. Purchase your Bavarian-style beer in a themed stein and receive discounted refills. Other beverages are available, including domestic beer, wine, soft drinks, and coffee. There is usually an outdoor Biergarten at the Festhalle, as well. With a drink in hand, embrace the lively atmosphere and authentic flair of this German town in GA.
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Things to Do in Helen GA This Fall
While the Helen Georgia Oktoberfest is the place to be in the fall, there are many other interesting and fun things to do in Helen as well. Whether you’re looking for adventure, time in the outdoors, delicious restaurants, or exciting experiences, this quaint German town in GA has it all. Be sure to check out all that the town has to offer by considering this list of amazing things to do in Helen.
- Your first of many things to do in Helen GA, might be shopping downtown. There are many unique stores, from upscale boutiques to souvenir shops. You’ll find the best shopping on Main Street, the town’s main thoroughfare.
- When you’re not eating at the Helen Georgia Oktoberfest, there are several local restaurants and bars in town to choose from that offer a variety of dining options. Steakhouse Cowboys and Angels Restaurant and Bar offers traditional American fare and Southern specialties. If you are looking to have a drink while you’re out and about, stop by the popular Alpine Brew Deck for craft beer and live music. For a fine dining experience, consider eating at our Bed and Breakfast’s upscale restaurant, the Glen-Ella Springs Restaurant.
- While you are exploring things to do in Helen GA you need to visit Habersham Vineyards and Wineries for a relaxing glass of Georgia-produced wine. Their tasting room is located on Main Street, so it’s an easy stop to make while you’re touring downtown.
- Thrilling and exciting adventures await at Nacoochee Adventures and Georgia Mountain Coaster. One of the many outdoor things to do in Helen GA, is to ride a zipline, giant swing, or mountain coaster, or complete a challenge course. These activities are meant to get your heart pumping.
- If you want to get out in nature, consider soaking in the fall foliage at Anna Ruby Falls or Yonah Mountain. Peak foliage is in October to November, so you won’t want to miss the brilliant leaves changing color as autumn rolls in. Soaking in the natural landscape is a perfect complement to the Helen Georgia Oktoberfest.
- More adventure awaits at the North Georgia Wildlife and Safari Park, where a drive-thru safari and petting zoo give you the chance to experience sloths, capybaras, otters, and other fascinating wildlife up close.
- Go horseback riding at Chattahoochee Stables. This adventure offers an excellent way to experience the stunning North Georgia landscape up close while enjoying the company of these gentle animals.
- Finally, spend a day at the Uhburg, a local castle with stunning gardens and philosophical murals. This one-of-a-kind place is an intriguing stop while experiencing all of the things to do in Helen GA.
After a full day of adventuring and experiencing the Helen Georgia Oktoberfest, retreat to our Bed and Breakfast Near Helen GA, the perfect home base for your explorations of the charming German town in GA. Located just a short 40-minute drive from Helen, our Bed and Breakfast allows you to enjoy the lively energy and festivities of the town before returning to a serene and relaxing escape.
Here, you can unwind in comfort, take in the natural beauty that surrounds you, and recharge for another day of discovery in the North Georgia Mountains. Enjoy one of our eight uniquely decorated guest rooms, some with jetted tubs, plush robes, and private entrances, and warm, inviting hospitality. Our sumptuous full-service breakfast, served every morning, starts your day off right. Plan your perfect escape at our upscale Bed and Breakfast Near Helen GA, where elegance meets comfort. Book your room today!