Known for its German beer, polka music, food trucks and fanfare Gasthof's Oktoberfest returns to northeast Minneapolis on Friday, but with a new partner in the likes of Fulton Brewing.
Gasthof's, which permanently closed its northeast restaurant during the COVID-19 pandemic, traditionally hosted Oktoberfest beneath a giant tent located in the parking lot north of their building. When they closed for good, many figured that spelled the end for Oktoberfest as well.
Fulton Brewing co-owner Jim Diley says keeping the Oktoberfest tradition was important for many, including many at Fulton.
"When we heard it'd be closing its doors for good, we thought that we had to think of a way to keep the Oktoberfest tradition alive," Diley said. "We worked with the previous Gasthof owners to find a happy way to do that."
This year's Gasthof's Oktoberfest won't be much different than in years past. In fact, the biggest difference will likely be the addition of some of Fulton's craft beer and seltzer offerings, along with Dampfwerk Distillery Oktoberfest-themed cocktails.
"We all agreed that the traditions there were so strong and that we hated to see them go," Diley added. "We wanted to work and find a way to bring those back alive. Really, that's how it came to be."
Diley added it's important to remember no business is immune from the pandemic's impact and that flexibility has been critical for them finding any kind of success during a difficult year.
"We count our blessings everyday that we are still here and that all of us working to put great local beer onto the market are still able to do that."
Gasthoff's Oktoberfest at Fulton NE runs Friday and Saturday on back-to-back weekends.