I admit I had no clue what Oktoberfest was growing up. I had never even heard of the German tradition before a few years ago and even then had never attended a festival. Since receiving my latest and greatest newsletter from Family Education, I have decided this year my kids and I will check out our local festival and see what we have been missing.

Yes, I know, when you hear the word Oktoberfest, what comes to mind - beer, but in today’s growing family world Oktoberfest is a fall festival that the whole family can enjoy.

According to the official Munich web site the first Oktoberfest was held in 1810, but was not an actual festival, but a celebration at the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen.

This year, Munich will celebrate their 174th Oktoberfest! You should join in the festivities. Here is a list of larger cities that will be having some Oktoberfest fun, both the United States and Canada. Your city may be having their own fun fall festival, make sure to check your city’s web site or your local paper for more information.