Oktoberfest is on tap at Sels’ Brewery

Published 3:00 am Monday, September 16, 2024

CANYON CITY — Prost!

That’s “Cheers!” in German, and just about the only word you’ll need to fit in at the Whiskey Gulch Gang’s upcoming Oktoberfest.

This is the third year for the “fest,” set for 3-8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 28. at the historic Sels’ Brewery, 113 S. Washington St. in Canyon City.

Once again, the menu includes beer, burgers and brats for sale, plus activities and games, including a dress-up contest.

Singer-songwriter Lucas Treptow will kick things off at 3 p.m. Treptow recently moved to Grant County from Montana, where he performed and opened for several bands. Popular local group The James Gang, who played at the past two Oktoberfests, return with their set list of lively country and dancing tunes.

But wait — there’s more music.

Capping off this year’s Oktoberfest is an evening concert featuring Tylor and the Train Robbers, offering up their own blend of country and Americana sounds.

Now based out of Boise, the trio of brothers — Tylor Ketchum, and Jason and Tommy Bushman — are from Helix. For the past decade, they have been playing and touring to a growing fan base. Their fourth album, “Hum of the Road,” was released in May.

Admission is free to the daytime part of the event, which is family-friendly. Note that minors are allowed only until 6 p.m.

Tickets for the evening concert, which starts at 8:30 p.m., are $25 per person, plus fees, at eventbrite.com. Organizers expect a sell-out, so folks are encouraged to get their tickets early. The price at showtime will be $35 — if space is available.

Whiskey Gulch Gang president Colby Farrell said having Tylor and the Train Robbers, a nationally known touring band, is an added highlight this year.

“We’re always looking to try to catch touring bands in the area during the summer,” Farrell said, adding that they weren’t able to make it work at any other time this year, but will keep looking.

Farrell said Oktoberfest has been a success for the past two years.

“It’s been a good event to kick off fall before things begin to slow down for the winter,” he said.

The gang

The Whiskey Gulch Gang honors the rich history of the area, most notably the discovery of gold near Canyon City on June 8, 1862.

In addition to the ‘62 Days Celebration in June and Oktoberfest in the fall, the nonprofit group is active in local parades and other community events.

Farrell said the Gang is always looking for new members.

“We are a pretty informal and laid-back group who just like trying to bring something fun for the community,” he said.

Membership is $10 a person, and then $1 dues per year after that. For information, call 541-575-0329, email whiskeygulchgang@gmail.com or visit the group on Facebook.

The location

Never been to Sels’? Better take advantage of this golden opportunity. Oktoberfest and ‘62 Days are the Gang’s only scheduled events each year when folks can get a look-see inside the historic Sel’s building.

It’s named for area pioneer F.C. Sels, who pursued several enterprises and held various positions in the community. He established the brewery in 1872. In 1972 — a century later — the Whiskey Gulch Gang bought the stately corner building.

And what more appropriate location for an Oktoberfest than a business launched by a German immigrant?

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