Hollerbach’s Springfest is Gemutlichkeit
Gemutlichkeit – a German word that can be translated a number of ways, but we define it
as the overall sense of well-being you experience while enjoying good food and drink among friends and family, and there is no better word to describe Springfest. Now, I have never experienced Oktoberfest in Germany (bucket list!) but being at this free-to-attend festival put on by Sanford’s own Hollerbach’s, made me feel like I was pretty close.
Upon arrival, we stopped at Hollerbach’s Outfitters to receive our “Hollerbucks,” tickets used for the outdoor food and drink vendors. While there, we had the absolute pleasure of meeting Theo, the owner of the Hollerbach’s empire! He personally escorted us up to the VIP area held at Cindy’s Dance Studio, complete with beer, wine, schnapps, exclusive cuisine by Executive Chef Pat and air conditioning! After getting the lowdown on what’s what from both him and his wife, we were on our way!
Our first stop was for food where the scent of potato pancakes quickly drew me in. I decided on getting the “deluxe,” a potato pancake with sour cream, bacon,chives and lots of melted cheese on top. Need I say more? Just like in Germany, the festival was also complete with sausages and pretzels. For drinks, I stopped by Sanford’s own Tuffy’s tent, serving up my favorite Strawberry Kiwi Cider (a favorite I discovered at Pints n’ Paws), but for the real beer lovers, Hollerbach’s had multiple tents set up serving a multitude of different kinds. With full bellies of beer and food, we then got the pleasure of watching the Alex Meixner Band.
Now, I’ve always been a fan of live music, but this guy can rock like no one I have ever seen. With his giant accordion and lively personality, he had people of all ages dancing, polka-ing, and flat out just having a great time. Even we couldn’t help but dance around a little bit, his energy was so contagious. My only regret was not being dressed in traditional German lederhosen, but I’m not too worried. Hollerbach’s Outfitters is the store that will have us covered or next year!
What:
Hollerbach’s Springfest hosted by Hollerbach’s Willow Tree Café
When:
Saturday, April 6 th 2-10pm
Sunday, April 7 th 12-6pm
*This is an annual event so go to https://www.hollerbachs.com/springfest, or on Facebook, to
follow details for next year!
Where:
Magnolia Square in beautiful Downtown Sanford!
Cost:
Free admission!
$1=3 “Hollerbucks” which can be bought online before-hand or at multiple places during the
event (food and drinks at different tents cost between 1-3 Hollerbucks)
*VIP option available for guests 21 and up
