WHITE COUNTY, Ga. — A fall tradition in the north Georgia mountains will not happen this year. Helen announced this weekend that it is postponing its annual Oktoberfest until 2021.
The Chamber of Commerce cited safety of its employees and tourists during the COVID-19 pandemic. This year would have been the festival’s 50th anniversary.
“This has been an extremely difficult decision. No one could have imagined a situation that would cause us to cancel the Festhalle celebrations for our 50th Anniversary, and all options were looked at prior to reaching our decision.”
Millions of people visit Helen for Oktoberfest that’s held for weeks every year. But the chamber felt it would not be possible for the Festhalle experience to come close to what it has become known for.
The city instead plans to host its 50th anniversary celebration next year. While the event is canceled, people are encouraged to support local businesses.
“The businesses we represent are still open for you. We still have some of the best restaurants you will find anywhere. Our beautiful mountains are still here. We love our visitors and we welcome them. We are hopeful that other celebrations can safely continue.”