Fine time for a stein

COEUR d’ALENE — Thanks to steady hands holding beer mugs, the rest of this year promises to be a good one. 

Might as well drink to that.

“They say the more beer that hits the floor, the more bad luck you have in the coming year,” said Ben Drake on the opening day of Oktoberfest in downtown Coeur d'Alene. “So we want no drops. It’s got to all be in the mugs.” 

A joyous crowd was happy to make sure not a single one was lost on a 67-degree, sunny Friday evening. 

“We need good luck this year, guys,” Drake said. 

As the keg was tapped, glass steins were thrust under the flowing dark beer. Men and women smiled as a weekend that offers a reason to drink kicked off. 

As is tradition, Drake led the crowd in singing, "Ein Prosit Der Gemutlichkeit,” which means "A Toast to Good Cheer.” 

“Welcome to Oktoberfest,” shouted Drake, who owns and operates the Crown and Thistle Pub on Fourth Street with wife Jennifer Drake.

About 100 raised their glasses and cheered in agreement.

“I’ll drink to that,” shouted one man wearing lederhosen. 

The ceremonial tapping of the keg, along with song, dance and German phrases, opened the annual celebration that includes contests for best traditional dress and stein holding. 

The annual event in Munich, Germany, a bigger affair, also kicked off Friday and runs through Oct. 6.

Oktoberfest is organized by the Coeur d'Alene Downtown Association. It offers 18 host sites, 30 beer options, two beer gardens, seven live bands and German food from local restaurants. 

Rotary Centennial Park on Sherman Avenue will be transformed into the No-Li Biergarten. A second location at Second and Sherman will be transformed into the Prostgarten, filled with beer, food and music on the STCU Stage.  

The good times continue today from noon to 8 p.m.

Tickets: cdadowntown.com or check at the Plaza Shops. 

    Ben Drake holds the keg high after it was emptied on the first day of Oktoberfest in Coeur d'Alene on Friday.