Celebrate German heritage via food, music and beer (of course) at the Maryland German Festival later this month.
Perhaps best of all (thanks for nothing, heat wave) -- it's indoors.
Roughly 17 percent of Americans are of German decent, so invite yourself to the festival because, after all, you're basically family.
You can expect the best German beverages -- think schnapps, kirsch (fruit brandy) and beer. Where would we be without German beer? Germany also gave us the Easter bunny, gummy bears and the perm. We're not certain if any of those will be making an appearance, but we would definitely try the beer.
Authentic German food will be readily available, including pastries such as streuseltaler, strudel and bienenstich, a delectable dough with Bavarian cream filling and almonds and honey on top.
Worth the Trip
Crafts and collectibles will also be for sale on the floor, including items like handmade papier-mâché Easter eggs and plenty of Christmassy items like nesting dolls and Mr. Nutcracker himself. Yes, Germany also originated the concepts of the Christmas tree and the Nutcracker.
The fest is being held at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, Md. on July 27 and 28.
General admission is $8; kids under age 12 are free with an adult. Hours are Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Live music is scheduled throughout both days.
