New Glarus Oktoberfest

I haven’t been to Munich for Oktoberfest yet, but short of traveling to Germany to celebrate the harvest, I think New Glarus, Wisconsin is the best place in the world to celebrate Oktoberfest. This is not hyperbole. New Glarus is the sweetest town in Wisconsin.

The best time to visit New Glarus is during Polkafest. In June, the Roger Bright Memorial Polkafest is more than a big tent and polka bands. It’s a homecoming of sorts for the families who live there. People plan their family reunions around Polkafest. The Chamber of Commerce organizes an annual Beer, Bacon and Cheese festival, and it’s worth the ticket price to attend. Most importantly, Polkafest honors the history and legacy of Roger Bright, a performer who played some of my most favorite recordings. 

The timing of my nascent polka DJ hobby and the 2021 Polkafest didn’t line up in time for me to play records this year. But I was invited to play at Oktoberfest. I was thrilled to bring my turntables under the big blue and white tent. People danced, cheered for their favorite songs, clapped, and sang along to “Roll Out the Barrel.” The crowd was fabulous and graciously welcomed the crackle and pop of my records. Prost!