This traditional festival is modeled after one of the world’s largest celebrations held each year since 1810 in Munich, Germany. New Ulm’s version takes place during the first two weekends of October, Oct. 1-2 and Oct. 8-9. The fun begins Friday evenings and continues all day Saturday at the Holiday Inn, with a full schedule of “oom-pah!” including performances from New Ulm’s famous Concord Singers and bands from Germany. Both Saturdays downtown feature German food and music, horse-drawn trolley rides and dancing. The first Saturday also marks German-American Day with a parade downtown at 11:00 AM. Cost: Moderate fee at Holiday Inn and free at the Visitor Center.

For more information, visit www.newulm.com.