DOVER– Mount Snow Resort’s annual celebration of German food, beer, and music has evolved into something quite a bit more since it first started back in 1997. Families from all over the Northeast now make it their annual Columbus Day weekend destination. This year, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce recognized Oktoberfest, happening October 12 and 13, as one of the state’s Top 10 Fall Events for 2013 thanks to the event’s broad variety of activities and continued growth and popularity.

Like most German-themed festivals, there is live oom-pah music, plenty of schnitzel, and an array of beers to choose from with more than 20 different German and domestic breweries pouring their newest fall-time offerings. In addition to the traditional food and drink, Mount Snow provides a slew of activities and games for both the big kids and the little kids to enjoy including the Kids Zone, a yodeling contest, horseshoe tournament, and the famous “schnitzel toss,” to name a few.

Last year more than 100 people participated in the debut of the Gulp and Gallop 5K Beer Run which is a fun run that will once again be held at the beginning of the festival on Saturday. Gulp-and-gallopers make four laps around the base area of the mountain and each time participants complete a lap they have their choice of water or a cup of beer to drink before heading back out onto the course. There will also be the Kool Aid 1K for kids later in the afternoon.

Admission to the Mount Snow Oktoberfest for anyone age 21 and over is $25 for one day and $35 for two days when purchased in advance online; day-of admission is $35 for one day and $45 for two days and includes one commemorative stein and a beer token for each day of admission. For the under-21 crowd and designated drivers, admission is $12 for one day and $20 for two days when purchased in advance online; day-of is $20 for one day and $23 for two days. Hours are 11 am to 5 pm both Saturday, October 12, and Sunday, October 13, with live music from the Oberlaendler Hofbrau Band all weekend long.

Scenic chairlift rides on the Bluebird Express to the summit of Mount Snow are available for $10 per person. The Main Base Lodge will be home to the 40th annual Harvest Arts and Crafts Fair featuring local artisans and food vendors selling their creations beginning at 9 am on Saturday and Sunday. Admission to the arts and crafts fair is free.

For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.mountsnow.com.