1 of 4
Glenn Kohaly
2 of 4
Glenn Kohaly
3 of 4
Glenn Kohaly
4 of 4
Glenn Kohaly
Story and photos by Glenn Kohaly
Washington’s largest Oktoberfest comes to life in Anacortes October 4. On Friday, the festivities begin when 30 Northwest breweries roll into town for the "Bier on the Pier”. For the next two days Washington brewers will showcase their beers whose taste ranges from malty, hoppy, fruity, bitter, grassy, nutty, sweet, salty and so many more. Let the brewers enthusiasm for the "art of hopping” be your guide to understanding the balance and complexities of your favorite beer and experience the true flavors of fabulous Washington breweries.
Amidst all the barley, malts and hops, the scrumptious smells of schnitzel, bratz, kraut, and pretzels will drift through the air while Bavarian music enlivens the atmosphere. Folks in German costumes and feathered Bavarian hats strut "Old Country" looks, hoping to win the daily costume contest. Oktoberfest, Anacortes style, is the perfect opportunity to let “Bier on the Pier” transport you to the “Old Country”.
The already-stunning Majestic Inn has recently come under new ownership and with its location right downtown it is a popular choice for visitors. Their 5th Street Bistro has a fresh attitude; a fresh northwest menu prepared with fresh local products, featured northwest wines and local micro brews served by a friendly team. They even have a beautiful in-house Salon and Spa offering “melt-away” massage, facials, steam rooms, manicures and pedicures in a relaxing sanctuary.
With its wood-burning stove, oiled wood floors, and thousands of bins stocked with historic and antique surplus, Marine Supply in Anacortes is a magical place for boaters to visit. Whether you are hunting for that almost-never-to-be-found item or just wanting to browse around a great shop this is the stop for you. The business which is now listed on the Washington Centennial registry of historic places started up almost 100 years ago and is being run by the original proprietor’s grandson, Steve Demopoulos.
Downtown Anacortes offers specialty shops, antique stores and art galleries. There are over 90 murals on downtown buildings portraying Anacortes’ pioneers and historical scenes. Dining in Anacortes is an experience with everything from quick lunches to fantastic evening meals offered in unique restaurants. Quaint bed and breakfasts, inns, motels such as the popular Anaco Bay Inn as well as waterfront RV parks offer an array of accommodation options.
For more information give the good folks a call at the Visitor Centre 360-293-3832 or email info@anacortes.org For Chamber of Commerce information call 360-293-7911.
Events:
March 22-24 Spring Boat Show
April 13 Spring Wine Festival
May 14-19 Trawler Fest
June 1-2 Anacortes Waterfront Festival
August 2-4 Anacortes Arts Festival
Fidalgo Bay Resort – RV by the Bay
4701 Fidalgo Bay Road
Anacortes, WA 98221
(800) 727.5478
www.fidalgobay.com
Swinomish Northern Lights Casino & RV Park
I-5 Exit 230
Anacortes, WA 98221
(360) 293-2691
www.swinomishcasinoandlodge.com