by Elizabeth Connolly
Hometown Weekly Reporter
Thousands of exuberant guests flocked to Boylston Schul-Verein (BSV), the German-American Club located on Route 109 in Walpole. They were there to celebrate the club’s annual Oktoberfest, an event that featured traditional German fare, music, and drink. Ravenous guests enjoyed beloved classics such as currywurst, bratwurst, leberkase, and schnitzel, or chose more local favorites like hot dogs, hamburgers and french fries. Also on the menu were a number of beers; many of them German, of course, as well as waffles, lemonade, soft drinks, and a selection of mouthwatering baked goods.
It seemed there was something for just about everyone, and every age, to enjoy at Oktoberfest. In addition to the many refreshments on offer, there was a game section that featured fencing, archery, and air rifle target shooting. Live music from Die Lustigen Almdudler played under the covered pavilion intermittently throughout the festival to very enthusiastic crowds. Children enjoyed cornhole, ball toss, and the Judy Sauer playground, and all ages took advantage of the spacious picnic area to relax and enjoy the sold out event with family, friends, and neighbors.
Oktoberfest is a beloved German tradition that dates back to the marriage of Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen to Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria in Munich, Germany. That first Oktoberfest took place on October 12, 1810, and was so much fun that they decided to make it an annual celebration. American versions of the event are typically modeled after the original and filled with gemütlichkeit, or friendliness and warmth. This was certainly felt by most visitors to the BSV. “I love coming to this, it feels like the whole town is here,” one enthusiastic attendee exclaimed. “Seriously! I think I know about half of these people,” her friend added.
Known as one of the largest and oldest German-American clubs in the area, BSV began as a teaching facility for children in 1874. It has been at its current location since 1976 and, while still serving as a language school, has branched out to encompass a number of cultural and social activities, such as Oktoberfest. They are now celebrating their 150th club anniversary.
For more information on BSV, including classes, upcoming events, how to become a member and more, visit their website www.GermanClub.org.
