Plenty to do as fall approaches

Calling all bike riders, Oktoberfest aficionados and anyone else looking for a great weekend on the lake.

The 2014 Coeur d'Alene Fall Festival, set for Sept. 26-27, includes the popular Coeur d'Fondo bike tour around Lake Coeur d'Alene as well as the festivities of Oktoberfest in downtown Coeur d'Alene.

Organizers of the Coeur d'Fondo are actively seeking entrants with both competitive and non-competitive bike ride options available, including a "Family Fun" ride of 15 miles. Riders are encouraged to register now at www.cdagranfondo.com

"This is a weekend that provides something for everyone," said Terry Cooper, manager of the Coeur d'Alene Downtown Association. "It's a great time of year to plan to be in Coeur d'Alene."

Coeur d'Fondo, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 27, offers riders the option to do as many - or as few - miles as they like. The course follows the forested shores of Lake Coeur d'Alene along Highway 97, one of Idaho's most scenic byways. Some tour options include a cruise boat ride back to Coeur d'Alene.

The Coeur d'Alene Resort is offering room deals that weekend from $189 per night, and giving guests a complimentary official Coeur d'Fondo cycling jersey for a two-night stay.

Oktoberfest begins Friday, Sept. 26, and continues Saturday afternoon. It will include live entertainment, German food and select harvest brews. Musical acts include Native Sun, The Coeur d'Alene Big Band and Shiner.

Tickets to Oktoberfest are $20 and include a keepsake glass mug, six sampling tickets and admission to all music venues. Participants must be 21 years or older to purchase and use sampling tickets. ID is required at the event.

Oktoberfest tickets are available at The Resort Plaza Shops at 210 E. Sherman Ave. on Friday, Sept 26, from 3:30 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 27, from 12:30 p.m. while supplies last.

For more Coeur d'Alene Fall Festival information, see www.cdadowntown.com or www.cdaresort.com.