Oktoberfest

While we did not get down to Munich for the big Oktoberfest, Karen and I still wanted to get a taste of the festivities that occur all around Germany (and the world for that matter).  So we traveled to the center of Berlin (where we witnessed a breathtaking sunset) and made our way down to a cluster of large tents staked out along the Spree.  Our first stop by the river was Spree Wies'n where the "Neighborhood Boys" were playing traditional German songs (not really polkas) and leading the packed house in raucous call and response chants.  We did not linger long here as it was standing room only and it is hard to hold a sausage and a liter of beer all night long.  Just down the road, near the main train station we found an Oktoberfest at Dream Beach that was just getting under way.  The friendly bouncer waved our cover charges and seated us in the reserved area alongside some German men that informed us that today was "International Suit-Up Day". Karen and I then joined the growing crowd for mighty mugs of Paulaner beers, pretzels and a tasty roast chicken as we sang along with a medley of campy European pop songs from the live band.  We danced alongside lots of men dressed in lederhosen and women sporting the traditional dirndl outfits.  It was a great night and a wonderful way to celebrate Oktoberfest.