From the mountains to the sea, Oktoberfest is a major pastime in Southern California from the end of summer well into the fall.

Two of the biggest celebrations begin this weekend, Sept. 6-7, in Big Bear Lake and Huntington Beach. Both continue into November.

Oktoberfest here is a combination of oompah bands, German foods such as brats and giant pretzels, German clothes such as dirndls and lederhosen, and imported beer served in enormous steins.

On top of that, Southern California festivals have the chicken dance, rock and country cover bands, local craft beers and other American touches.

“I think most people come because they love the German experience. They want the German food. They want to hear the German bands,” said Monica Marini, director of Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest, now in its

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