Pittsburgh's Oktoberfest kicked off Thursday. Here's what to know.
Pittsburgh's Oktoberfest events got underway Thursday afternoon. Here's what to know about the 10-day festival.
Oktoberfest, which is returning to Pittsburgh for a second year, kicked off at 12 p.m. along Fort Duquesne Boulevard with a ceremonial beer keg tapping.
"Pittsburghers love a party, and as most Yinzers will tell you, there are deep German roots here in our city," said Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato.
Starting Thursday and running through Oct. 12, a beer garden on Fort Duquesne Boulevard between Stanwix Street and 7th Street will be open from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. with extended hours through 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. It's a new location this year because of construction in Market Square.
Throughout the 10-day festival, the Roberto Clemente Bridge will be closed to traffic as the Ferris wheel, which made its debut last year, is back for a second go-round.
Admission to the Ferris wheel costs $7 for a ride that lasts approximately 10 minutes.
The Clemente Bridge will also be the site of food vendors and carnival-style games.
A number of special events will be taking place this weekend during the festival, including a German car show, dachshund races, and stein holding competitions.
More information about the festival can be found on Oktoberfest's website.