Timed with the Langley Gets Lively activities held the first weekend of every month, OktoberFest gets under way with Friday Night Flights, a walk-around town wine tasting featuring Alsatian varietals and mouthwatering appetizers from 4-6:30 p.m. on Friday. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at Chef’s Pantry, The Edgecliff and Prima Bistro.
On Sat., Oct. 3, the festivities continue as various Langley venues sell commemorative steins good for month-long discounts on OktoberFest beer as well as a free first pour at two beer gardens. Located behind Island Angel Chocolates (2nd Street) and hosted by Diamond Knot Brewery, the beer gardens are open from 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. One features India Pale Ale, Hefeweizen and a special OktoberFest Brew for adults. An adjacent children's garden features root beer floats and a Bavarian feast complete with authentic brown mustard and sauerkraut.
The Whidbey Children’s Theater presents face painting in the children’s garden from noon-2 p.m.
Other OktoberFest highlights include the Bavarian Village Players, a ten-piece oompah band; a pretzel making demonstration; and complimentary polka lessons.
Extending the autumn celebration, Langley visitors can take the Whidbey Island Farm Tour, a self-guided exploration of working farms specializing in area produce and products, on Saturday, Oct. 3 and Sunday, Oct. 4.
www.visitlangley.com
