Corte Madera Brews Up Successful Oktoberfest

Everyone got into the spirit of Oktoberfest with a raised mug and a song in Old Corte Madera Square on Saturday.

Any worries about rain vanished early with warm October temperatures and clear skies. That left everyone in a mood to eat, drink and be merry. The annual event, started in 1994, drew huge crowds from around the Bay Area and beyond to enjoy beer, hot dogs, bratwursts and more.

The festive atmosphere combined Oktoberfest traditions right down to the lederhosen, Halloween spirits, and San Francisco Giants playoff fever. Orange and black were definitely the colors of the day, with a touch of green thrown in here and there.

Mendocino's North Coast Brewery brought seven beers and ran out well before the end of the party. Other brewers included local favorites Marin Brewing Company, Pizza Orgasmica, Anchor Steam, Broken Drum and Sierra Nevada. Others included Lost Coast, Mucky Ducky Pub, Grand Teton Brewing Co., Moonlight Brewing Co. and Waterstone Winery.

Proceeds from ticket and official t-shirt sales for Oktoberfest benefit the Corte Madera Beautification Committee and its activities, some of which were clearly on display surrounding the Town Square. The Beautification Committee provides the hanging flower baskets around town.

The local Lion's Club had one of the biggest hits of the festival: a plateful of bratwurst, sauerkraut and German potato salad for $6. Corte Madera restaurants Max's and Stefano's added their own tastes.

Oktoberfest was about more than good food and good drinks, however. There was music from the Corte Madera Town Band and others; a silent auction; and games and crafts.

The Storks of Marin General Hospital, the Corte Madera-Larkspur Mother's Club and Holy Innocent's Episcopel Church were among the non-profits trying to raise funds at the festival.