In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the Borough of Canonsburg, located just 35 miles north of Waynesburg, a special three days slow the pace down. The smells of bavarian pretzels, beer and sauerkraut take over. The sound of local bands rocking out through subwoofers controls the airways. Looking around, there are families spread out across Pike street.

The Pennsylvania Bavarian Oktoberfest, a three day event hosted in Canonsburg draws a family oriented crowd to enjoy the festivities. The event took place this past weekend from September 14-16.

For several residents of Canonsburg, spending time with family is the main reason for attending.

“Family, Food and Fun,” said Canonsburg native Michael Kessler. “You know it’s just a good way to spend time with family.”

Others attend the annual event solely for traditional purposes.

“I’ve come here every year since I’ve lived here,” said Lindsay Rose, a resident of Canonsburg.

According to the Greater Canonsburg Chamber of Commerce Website, the Oktoberfest is a replica of the legendary German festivals.

According to the website;“The festival features two stages; one with authentic German music and the other with continuous popular music, German cuisine and beer, as well as Ethnic and American foods are featured.”

For junior criminal justice major and Canonsburg resident Koby Oram, the featured foods always draw him to the festival.

“The food is awesome,” said Oram. “The fried chicken is the best, it is delicious and I’m going to see if I can find it again.”

These foods are also a draw for Rose, with the cuisine from the mediterranean always peakingher interest.

“Gyro’s for sure”, said Rose. “I always get them with everything on it.”

In addition to the food and family time there are also a number amusement rides and games to play.

For Rory Bennett the rides are the main attraction for his daughter Avery.

“You know it’s fun for all,”she said.“Dad gets to drink beer, the kids get have fun and ride the rides.”

There are also different games to play where festival goers can win prizes from stuffed animals all the way to live goldfish.

The website also said that a large turnout is expected

“Now in its 20th year, we expect over 60,000 people to attend the chambers popular Bavarian Oktoberfest,” according to the website.

Oram noted how crowded the festival was and noticed a fluctuation in numbers.

“It is definitely crowded,” Oram said. “ But if anything it’s gotten less crowded though. I remember when I was in high school everybody went, but now that my brother is in high school they don’t go.”