Schroeder's is the oldest and largest German restaurant and bar on the West Coast, and celebrates its 115th anniversary today. The event includes live polka bands, traditional Bavarian dancing and both male and female beer-holding contests. What's more, Schroeder's birthday is in conjunction with an Oktoberfest celebration that they and neighboring restaurant and bar Royale Exchange are hosting.
And there will be a beer contest, too! Winners from tonight's beer-holding competition will advance to the championships Nov. 21 at Schroeder's. The beer-holding contest rules are simple: Contestants hold a full liter of beer out at arm's length with the arm and torso at a 90-degree angle. The one who holds their liter longest wins. Schroder's owner Stefan Filipclk says the competition is much harder than it sounds, so work those arms muscles beofrehand. The current record at Schroeder's is 4:35. Good luck.
Festivities are 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. at 240 Front Street (between Sacramento and California streets). (That block of Front Street will be closed to traffic.) The event is free and open to all ages. But if you can't make it tonight, Schroeder's also celebrates Oktoberfest every Friday in October with live music, beer-holding contests, traditional Bavarian dancing, and more.
