Oktoberfest, the world-famous German beer festival, has its roots in Munich, Germany, dating back to 1810 when it was first held to celebrate the wedding of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig. What began as a royal celebration has since grown into a massive cultural event known for its traditional food, Bavarian music, and lively dancing, enjoyed by millions each year from mid-September to early October.
That same festive spirit came to Batavia on Saturday evening, as Eli Fish Brewing Company hosted its own Oktoberfest in Jackson Square. A large crowd gathered to celebrate, with Buffalo’s Big German Band filling the square with authentic Bavarian sounds. Locals danced, sang, and cheered their way through the night, while one of the highlights of the event—the Steinholding competition—showcased both strength and endurance.
In the women’s division, Maud claimed victory for the second year in a row, holding strong for 2 minutes and 30 seconds. On the men’s side, Mike continued his dominance, winning with a time of 4 minutes and 10 seconds. His performance marked his third win in the last four years, solidifying his reputation as a crowd favorite in Batavia’s Oktoberfest tradition…