From jelly-filled doughnuts and pretzels to learning dances and hanging out with friends, the once-a-year event held by the German Honor Society on Friday, Oct. 18 brought everlasting memories. The annual Jefferson Oktoberfest transformed the greenhouse courtyard into a lively celebration of German traditions and Jefferson spirit. Freshmen through seniors gathered to enjoy cultural German food, dance and music.
Oktoberfest originated in Munich in 1819 to celebrate the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen, according to Britannica. It is now known as the beer-filled festival of Oktoberfest. Fourteen years ago, this holiday came to Jefferson as a celebration of food and culture for students to socialize and have fun with their friends and peers.
“I’ve been looking forward to Oktoberfest this year,” sophomore Emily Toth. “It’s a time to relax and hang out with friends while eating delicious food. There’s not always a lot of chances at Jefferson where I could do that during the school day, so it’s a lot of fun when I can.”
The German Honor Society began planning Oktoberfest a month before it was held, creating 8th period and food sign-ups,. Most of the food at Oktoberfest was provided by German students who earned service hours for doing so.
“Bringing food, helping out behind the food tables and making sure everything is replenished can earn you a lot of service hours,” German teacher Svilvia Oszko said. “It’s a great way to be involved with the school community and earn hours to contribute to your future.”
Every year, the members of the German Honor Society plan their iNite dances with culture in mind. After students were served food, senior president Niels-Oliver DeChaine taught parts of the planned 2025 iNite dance, including the Schuhplattler.
“There was a chance to learn a portion of the iNite dance that we do in the spring during the festival,” Toth said. “I did it last year and I’ll probably do it again this year. It’s a lot of fun.”
As the last pretzel was eaten and the last song was danced to, Oktoberfest left students with lasting memories and the spirit of German culture.
“Oktoberfest, for me, is a good way to learn about German culture,” senior treasurer Sumedh Anuganti said. “Although we still need to advertise more about Oktoberfest, it’s a fun way for people to interact with each other and experience this long-standing tradition at Jefferson.”