It’s hard to believe it’s already August and that fall is just around the corner. But one of the things I love about living in this four-season paradise is that each season brings its own special feeling. With that feeling comes not only new weather (as well as beautiful sunsets and some remarkable fall foliage), but activities and events to keep you entertained until it’s time to dust off those skis and snowboards.

Perhaps it’s due to my German heritage, but I’ve never been one to pass up a great hand-crafted brew. Since living in the mountains, I’ve been pleased to find that I am not the only one. In fact, it seems that everywhere you look, there is some sort of Oktoberfest celebration happening this fall. Check out just a handful of the events going on around the U.S. below.

Oktoberfest – Snowmass, CO – 9/11/10: Visit Snowmass Village for Bavarian inspired music, food, shopping and dancing with biergartens stocked with German food and beer!

Oktoberfest – Breckenridge, CO – 9/17/10 to 9/19/10: Perhaps one of Breckenridge’s most anticipated festivals, Oktoberfest serves up genuine German cuisine, Paulaner Bier, great parties and more.

OktoberWEST – Steamboat Springs, CO – 9/18/10 to 9/20/10: In a twist on the original traditions of Oktoberfest, OktoberWEST will feature only Rocky Mountain beer and food, music, games and activities for both kids and adults.

Oktoberfest – Vail, CO – 9/10/10 to 9/19/10: Two full weekends of brat-eating and keg-bowling contests, yodeling, Bavarian dancing, alpine horn blowing and of course, beer drinking.

Camp Richardson’s 13th Annual Oktoberfest- Lake Tahoe- 10/02/10 to 10/03/10: Held at the Historic Camp Richardson Resort, Oktoberfest is fun for the whole family with great food, music, a pumpkin patch and a German beer and wine garden.

So, throw on your lederhosen or Bavarian dirndls and wash down some brats with a crisp Hefeweizen up in the mountains this summer. Also be sure to check out some of our sample specials below, visit www.summermountaintravel.com or give us a call at 800-548-3226. Our Mountain Vacation Specialists will customize a vacation based on your interests and can include things like lodging, flights, ground transportation, activities and tickets to your favorite events.

B.W.