Oktoberfest 2010 in Denver, Colorado: The Beer, the Derby, the 5k and More

The 41^stOktoberfest Denver begins on the weekend of September 17^th and concludes on the weekend of September 24^th, with a wide variety of events, activities and celebrations available to Oktoberfest fans in Colorado-many for free! The 2010 season is the 200^th anniversary of Oktoberfest, making this year's events even more must-see for any fans of the annual festival. Below is a guide to some of the highlights for the 2010 Oktoberfest Denver events:

Oktoberfest Denver 2010 Event: Das Hustlehoff 5k Run - September 18th, 2010, from 8am -11am - According to Erica Boniface of Metromix Denver, the "Das Hustlehoff 5k" pays tribute to David Hasselhoff, a celebrity who continues to be legendary in Germany. Her event description states: "For the 5K race they encourage runners to put on their best "Baywatch" or "Knight Rider"-inspired costumes.... every runner will receive a free Das Hustlehoff/Oktoberfest Denver tech t-shirt." However, the official website for the event mentions nothing of this competition or costume request, so Hasselhoff-impersonate at your own risk! You can register for this event online here for $30 per ticket, or $25 for a member of the US Military.

Proceeds from the race go to a charity to be determined by the US troops participating in the race, according to the official Oktoberfest Denver website.

Oktoberfest Denver 2010 Event: Tapping of the First Keg - September 17^th, 2010, at 6:30pm - The opening ceremonies with Samuel Adams founder Jim Koch includes the traditional "tapping of the first keg." Using a hammer and a stake to open the keg and begin the two-weekend festival, this presentation and a blessing is given by the official hostess, Munchner Kindl, according to Erica Boniface.

Oktoberfest Denver 2010 Event: Long Dog Derby and Costume Contest- September 26^th, 2010, from 10am-3pm - With an entry limited to dachshunds or half-dachshunds, the "Long Dog Derby" is a wonderful opportunity to show your 'wiener dog' pride. Non-dachshunds can enter the costume contest or the Wiener Wanna-Be Race, but entries and the $15 entry fee must be received by September 15^th, 2010. According to the Oktoberfest Denver website, all proceeds benefit the Colorado Dachshund Rescue.

Oktoberfest Denver 2010 Event: Karnival for Kids - Each Day, Both Weekends - The "Karnival for Kids" takes place each day of Oktoberfest Denver, from 5pm-9pm or 11am-6-or-8pm depending on the date. While the official website is a bit vague on what exactly the "Karnival for Kids" is, it's probably safe to assume that it is a beer-free environment for kids under the age of 21.

Oktoberfest Denver 2010 Event: Live Music and Concerts - Each Day, Both Weekends - The 2010 Oktoberfest Denver has concerts and live music available at numerous times each day of this two-weekend festival. Both the "Rock stage" and 'German Stage' have events planned, including Polka music, Chris Webb and the Austrian Connection.

Sources:
Oktoberfest Denver, "Oktoberfest Denver"
Erica Boniface, "Oktoberfest Denver schedule 2010," Metromix