Whitefish event will crown Hop Queen
A Hop Queen will be crowned as a part of the 2014 Great Northwest Oktoberfest, according to the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce.
Traditionally, a Hop Queen presides over the annual Munich Oktoberfest.
“Since Whitefish is at about the same latitude as Munich and the rich hop-growing Hallertau region, we felt it was appropriate for us to follow tradition and add a Hop Queen to top off this annual event,” said Kevin Gartland, executive director of the Whitefish Chamber.
The Hop Queen will be awarded a $500 cash prize, an authentic German dirndl and a floral hop crown and will be the Ambassador of the Great Northwest Oktoberfest throughout the year.
“The Great Northwest Oktoberfest is all about winding down the busy summer season, blowing off some steam and having fun. We are looking for the kind of Hop Queen that embodies the qualities that the community of Whitefish and its almost relentless pursuit of fun,” said Marcus Duffey, general manager of the Great Northern Brewing Co. in downtown Whitefish.
Applicants must be at least 21; a maximum of eight finalists will be selected to compete for the title. The judges will be looking for candidates who know their beer and hops for this ceremonial ambassadorship.
The 2014 Hop Queen coronation schedule will include:
Thursday, Sept. 25, 6 p.m., — Introduction of all Hop Queen candidate finalists. Participate in various Oktoberfest competitions (stein holding, log-sawing, etc.). Interviews on stage with the judges.
Friday, Sept. 26, 6 p.m. — Introduction of all Hop Queen candidates. More participation in Oktoberfest competitions. Coronation of the 2014 Whitefish Oktoberfest Hop Queen is at 8 p.m.
Application forms for the 2014 Great Northwest Oktoberfest Hop Queen can be obtained from the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce at 862-3501 or on its website, whitefishchamber.org, and must be submitted in person or by email no later than 5 p.m. Sept. 19.
Friends and family are encouraged to nominate candidates they feel could embody the spirit of a Great Northwest Oktoberfest Hop Queen.
Great Northern Oktoberfest is Sept 25-27 and Oct 2-4 at Depot Park in Whitefish.
Online:
www.whitefishoktoberfest.com