SALT LAKE CITY (AP) – The beer will flow at a Utah Oktoberfest, after the state liquor board backed off its warning that the long-running German celebration of all things ale could go dry this year.
Utah’s state liquor board on Tuesday voted unanimously to grant a license for Snowbird Ski Resort’s 12-week event, now in its fourth decade.
“It’s clear that this is a valuable community event,” said board Chairman David Gladwell, “and that there’s tremendous community support.” Resort managers say next to a fresh batch of snow, Oktoberfest is the resort’s second biggest draw.
Oktoberfest proponents say the celebration isn’t just about beer, but showcases food, folk dancing and other activities, fueling an otherwise slow season for northern Utah tourism.
Earlier this year, the state liquor board warned Snowbird that it might withhold the liquor permit, reserving it instead for a charitable event.