Frothy German beer, festive brass bands and dachsund races — whats not to love about Oktoberfest?

The history of Oktoberfest dates back to 1810 in Munich, Bavaria, when King Ludwig the First married Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. Today the Munich Oktoberfest draws more than 6 million people a year.

Hi, Im Veronica Hill of California Travel Tips and today were celebrating an authentic German Oktoberfest in one of my favorite places — Old World Huntington Beach.

This charming village, built in 1978, mimics a real Bavarian town with cobblestone streets, beautiful murals, European markets, and plenty of authentic German food. You can even go downstairs into a German-style Rathskeller and enjoy real German beers such as Spaten, Bitburger or Warsteiner.

Though its open year round, Old World really comes alive during Oktoberfest, held annually in September and October.

You cant help but get caught up in the fun as party goers dance to Oktoberfest music and Oktoberfest girls pass out delightful liqueurs from the Old Country.

My favorite part? The dachsund races, featuring the fastest wiener dogs in the Southland, and the old-fashioned contortionist show featuring two 70-year-old sisters straight from Germany.

Following the show, stroll through the village where you can shop for handmade garden gnomes, try on some Oktoberfest costumes or shop at an authentic German market.

At Old World German Restaurant & Bakery, you can fuel up on Oktoberfest food like German potato salad, sauerkraut and bratwurst served with their soft German Farmers Rye.

Just dont leave without trying one of their delicious Berliners, a soft and chewy donut stuffed with cherry filling. Theyre absolutely incredible!

Old World Huntington Beach
(714) 898-5111
7561 Center Ave. Huntington Beach
www.OldWorld.ws