Most people don’t automatically associate New Orleans with German heritage, but our German forebears have been adding to the delights of the Big Easy since the large waves of immigration from Germany from 1820 to 1870. An organization called the Deutsche Gesellschaft was formed to assist the immigrants with housing and jobs. Over the years, that group evolved into the Deutsches Haus, which is the sponsor of the new Orleans Oktoberfest, a celebration of German heritage, food, culture and music.

The 2011 Oktoberfest will be held at Rivertown, 2020 Fourth St., Kenner, on Oct. 14-16 and Oct. 21-23; Fridays 4 to 11 p.m., Saturdays noon to 11 p.m., Sundays, noon to 8 p.m. For more information, call (504) 522-8014, and don’t forget to book your rooms at 1896 O’Malley House!