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Prince Albert,
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Ein Zwei G'suffa - Prince Albert Oktoberfest
Do you have to be German to enjoy October? Not really, but there is a fine German tradition which can be shared and enjoyed by everyone. The 7th annual Oktoberfest, organized by the P. A. German Canadian Club.
What are the origins of Oktoberfest and why is it such a popular event? To find the answers to these questions, let's take a trip to Munich, where Oktoberfest began. In the year 1810, King Joseph Maximilian of Bavaria married Princess Theresa of Saxony. To celebrate, a horse race was held on Munich's now famous Theresienwiese or meadow. People travelled from the far corners of Bavaria to pay homage to the royal couple who presided over the festivities from the royal tent. Such a good time was had by all that it was decided to make Oktoberfest an annual event. The following year it was expanded to include the agricultural fair. Later food booths and beer tents were added. When the beer started flowing in serious streams the celebration became the biggest hit ever. Today the Munich Oktoberfest is renowned for its special brews, its exceptional food, its music and cheerful camaraderie. It is a well established tradition.
In every Prince Albertan there must dwell a little Bavarian temperament, because Oktoberfest has become one of the most popular events of the year. The festivities officially begin when the first keg is tapped and the first glass is raised by the Burgermeister. There is a traditional German meal, served with plenty of beer, delicious desserts and of course, pretzels. Music is provided by the Heidelberg Band and for this night, the polka is king. The Alpen Rose dancers from Saskatoon's Concordia German Club are great entertainers and put on several shows during the evening. There are also prizes for traditional costumes so get out your best lederhosen and dirndl for the evening. If you don't have leather shorts, or a brush for your hat, bring your sense of humour and a good pair of dancing shoes - you'll still have a good time!
But what do the members of the Prince Albert German Canadian Club do after Oktoberfest? Each year in the fall, they promote their culture and language by offering German Language instruction. Classes are open to children and adults, regardless of ethnic origin. Children make a nine month commitment of 2 1/4 hours per week, adults for ten lessons. Anyone interested can contact Lorraine Brokop at 763-5859 (children's classes) or Neela Ebert 922-1256 for adult classes.
Members of the Prince Albert German Club are also active in the Prince Albert Multicultural Council and they always take part in Tapestrama. There is a Waldhorn Choir and they are presently looking for a piano player. Any volunteers?
The Prince Albert German Canadian Club plays an active role in our community and takes pride in promoting its German heritage, which they are happy to share. Oktoberfest is a prime example. Whether in Prince Albert or Munich, the purpose is the same - to bring people together, the German way, with good food, good brew and good company.
7th P. A. Oktoberfest at the Exhibition Centre - October 19, doors open 7:00pm
info/tickets Central Sausage and Meat 763-2195
Service Clubs and Associations:
Saskatchewan Genealogical Society
The lineage of royal families is easily traced in the annals of history, but what about yours? If you are interested, you can trace your ancestry, even if there are no black sheep or royalty or historic events in the family that merited recording. The research into family trees, their own and others, led to the formation of the Prince Albert Branch of the Saskatchewan Genealogical Society some 16 years ago. The Society promotes and encourages genealogical research. Members collect and preserve information from books, manuscripts, cemeteries, microfilms and any material related to genealogical, historical and biographical events in the area. The information is indexed, catalogued and shared with anyone interested in tracing their ancestors. If you would like to know more about your roots, you can contact the Prince Albert Branch of the Society or you're welcome to attend one of their meetings. Meetings are held every second Tuesday at 7:30 pm at the Prince Albert Museum, River Street (use the East entrance). For more information contact Louise Elliott 764-7843.
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"My Ladies: Cora & Cloe"
photo by Stephen Serenelli © 1996
