Chamber raises a glass during annual Oktoberfest

The Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce marked the 31st annual Oktoberfest on Saturday. The annual event features not only thematic competitions, music and food but also a scenic bike ride around West Lake Okoboji. Many attendees tested their skill and strength during the stein-holding contest, keg toss and beanbag tournament. The day's bicycle route took cyclers north from the area near Preservation Plaza in Arnolds Park, along Lakeshore Drive to the northernmost point of West Lake Okoboji before heading south along the county trail, which runs parallel with Highway 86. Riders rounded the southern side of the lake near Terrace Park Beach and scooped around Lake Minnewashta before arriving back at the starting point. (Photos by Dave Petrick)