Millheim celebrates fourth annual Oktoberfest

The Millheim Fire Company carnival grounds was the site for the fourth annual Oktoberfest on Sept. 24. The event, created by Tim Bowser and Cheryl Stamm, of Elk Creek Café & Aleworks in Millheim, is a fundraiser for the fire company. Bowser said the event has grown steadily since its beginnings.

Throughout the afternoon, Oktoberfest patrons socialized and dined on authentic German cuisine and consumed several varieties of Elk Creek beer, with names such as Oktoberfest Lager, Winkleblink Ale, Blue Heron Pale Ale and Poe Paddy Porter. Much of the food was donated by local farmers, and many local businesses and individuals helped sponsor the event.

A large yellow striped tent was erected to provide dining space, as well as a stage for entertainment. The Pleasant Valley Dancers, based in Freeburg, Snyder County, delighted the crowd of several hundred people by performing German dances while clad in old-style German costumes.

The group, affiliated with Susquehanna University, is led by Jack and Natasha Holt. Natasha Holt said the group was formed 10 years ago and performs many types of national and ethnic dances at events throughout Pennsylvania. They also offer dance lessons to the public.

Following the dance performance, the Little German Band from State College, led by conductor Dave Strouse, played a repertoire of music featuring several polkas, which had fair visitors tapping their toes and clapping. Formed in 1960, this band has been entertaining the citizens of Centre County and surrounding areas for more than 55 years.