Oktoberfest in Ekridge, Columbia: Weekend To-Do List

Open House at Elkridge Volunteer Fire Department
Where: Elkridge Volunteer Fire Department (6275 Old Washington Rd.) in Elkridge
When: 10 a.m.–2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 6
Why Go: Explore the firehouse with firefighters and paramedics as your guides, plus jump on the moon bounce.
Cost: Free

Animal Advocates Walk for Paws
Where: Department of Education (10910 Rte. 108) in Ellicott City
When: 10 a.m.–3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 6
Why Go: There will be games, contests, $20 microchipping (for dogs) and a pet photographer at this fundraiser, where you are welcome to bring your dog. 
Cost: Free

OktoberFest at Elkridge Assembly Rooms
Where: 6900 Lawyers Hill Rd. in Elkridge
When: 7–9 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 6
Why Go: The fundraiser to preserve a building on Lawyers Hill from the 19th century will feature a variety of Oktoberfest beers, German snacks and the local jazz band SlickHampton.
Cost: $25

Columbia Fall Craft Beer Tasting Festival
Where: Clyde’s of Columbia Lakefront Pavilion
When: 2–7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 6
Why Go: Clyde’s is partnering with more than 20 craft breweries and providing Oktoberfest-style food, such as knockwurst, bratwurst and pretzels.
Cost: $2.50 per ticket; $40 for 20 tickets. Each ticket is good for a 4-oz pour.

Rev3 Half-Full Triathlon
Where: Centennial Park in Ellicott City
When: 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 7
Why Go: The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults organized the race to raise funds to help treat cancer. Lance Armstrong will be competing.
Cost: Registration for the race is closed, but watching is free.

Pancake Breakfast
Where: Elkridge Volunteer Fire Department in Elkridge
When: 7:30–11 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 7
Why Go: All-you-can-eat breakfast.
Cost: $8 for adults; $7 for seniors (over 55); $5 for children (5-12 years); free for children under 5.