Alex, Ava and Walter Geltinger play the cowbells as the dancers waltz around. Walter is originally from Germany where the tradition of Oktoberfest began years ago. (Photo by Jennifer Wabnitz)

The sun shined brightly on the festivities along the Potomac River last weekend as visitors came from surrounding areas to celebrate Oktoberfest at the Bavarian Inn.

Gary and Pam Huffner of Inwood came for the first time. Rosie Shuman and Elisabeth Meuser ironed their dirndls and came for some fun.

Visitors were in for a variety of activities. German food was served under tents and in the sun while frosty steins of ale were enjoyed.

The entertainment never stopped performing. The Washingtonia Dance group performed traditional Bavarian dances in costumes. Six-year-old cousins Alex and Ava Geltinger rang the cowbells with their grandpa, Walter, for an extra touch. Walter and his wife are originally from the Munich area where the Oktoberfest tradition began.

But traditional German offerings wasn’t the only fun to be had.

The children could exert their energy on the moon bounces while craft vendors did a steady trade: purses, jewelry, pottery. Attendees could even create their own sand art.

Steins were for sale, full or empty, and attendees could enjoy the “best lemonade” or a glass of iced tea.

Stephen Christman, Bavarian Inn employee, summarized the afternoon simply.

“Good food. Good beer. You can’t go wrong.”