TOLEDO, OH (WTOL) - Before the music and festivities of the German American Festival, there's a lot of practice.
The Holzhacker Buam, or "Wood Chopping Boys" have been entertaining German American Festival goers for years now.
"For our dance group, it's practicing once a week to make sure our kids are ready, and our adults are ready to put on a really good show and get the crowd into it. It's all about having fun and promoting culture," said Rob Wiercinski, member of Toledo Holzhacker Buam Dance Group.
Passing on German, Bavarian and Swiss culture to the next generation is at the heart of the festival.
"It really is about the young kids in their costume and putting on a show and trying their hardest and people appreciate that," said Wiercinski.
From traditional dances like the wedding dance to the dance that pays tribute to the groups namesake, there is no shortage of things to enjoy at the festival.
"My favorite is the wood chopping we do a skit where we chop the wood so the Holzhacker has got to be my favorite," Wiercinski said.
With performances and live bands happening throughout the grounds at Oak Shade Grove, there will be other cultural takeaways, like Swiss Stone throwing and some modern up rides and games for kids.
There are also things for adults to enjoy.
"They do serve a beer here called Hacker-Pschorr Munchner Gold that is to die for, and the chicken is outstanding. I always have to have a chicken dinner at some point when I'm out here," said Wiercinski.
From Friday to Sunday, go experience a Toledo tradition at Oak Shade Grove that's 53 years old.
