Deutschesfest: Beer, Brats, Chicken Dance!

The town of Odessa, Wash., celebrates its German heritage by hosting the annual Deutschesfest, now in its 52nd year. As German music is heard on the streets of this small farming town, the scent of homemade German staples fills the air.

Deutschesfest is organized by descendants of Germans who emigrated from the Black Sea area near Odessa at the beginning of the 20th century and settled in eastern Washington. An appreciation for good food, drink, music and dancing has been handed down through the generations.

Deutschesfest will be held Thursday through Sunday, Sept. 14-17, with activities from breakfast through dinner. So break out your lederhosen and dirndls and head to Odessa for a weekend of fun.

The heart and soul of Deutschesfest can be found among the chalets in the Festplatz, the less-than-traditional “food court.” You’ll find kuchen, cabbage rolls, kraut ranza, apple strudel and much more, and you can take home some locally made German sausages!

But food is not the only attraction. There’ll be trike races for the kids, the Biergarten with its Chicken Dance for adults, the annual Fun Run for all ages, a Saturday parade, crafts, street vendors, and an outdoor stage with continuous talent.

For a schedule and more information, visit deutschesfest.net.