Running of the Wieners

The nation's largest Oktoberfest celebration, Oktoberfest-Zinzinnati, invites dachshunds from around the country to compete for the title of most authentically German "wiener dog" of this year's celebration.

The second annual John Morrell Running of the Wieners will kick off Oktoberfest-Zinzinnati on Friday, September 19, with competitions to be held at noon on Fountain Square in downtown Cincinnati.

The John Morrell Running of the Wieners races are free and open to any dachshund in America. Each dog will be provided its competition "race gear" hot dog bun costume, and will race 100 feet to its owner. Winners of each heat will advance to the finals. The grand champion dachshund will be crowned the most "authentically German" mascot of Oktoberfest-Zinzinnati, the nation's largest Oktoberfest, second only to the original in Munich, Germany. The winner will also receive a gift basket filled with dog treats and treats for his or her owner.

"Last year's first Running of the Wieners was the surprise hit of the Oktoberfest weekend," said Karen Michelsen, vice president of marketing for the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber. "We challenge our neighboring cities to enter their best dachshund to compete for this coveted title!"

Oktoberfest-Zinzinnati showcases the rich German heritage of Southwestern Ohio, as well as tasty samples of German-style music, food and beer. First held in 1976, the event has grown to be America's largest Oktoberfest with more than one half million people attending each year.

The 33rd annual Oktoberfest-Zinzinnati, presented by Sam Adams and John Morrell, will be held Saturday, Sept. 20 and Sunday, Sept. 21 along six blocks of Fifth Street in Downtown Zinzinnati. Hours are 11 a.m. to midnight on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.oktoberfestzinzinnati.com. For more information or to register your dachshund in advance, contact Brian Eagan at (513) 579-3100.

[Source: Wall Street Journal Market Watch]