By Tara Kyle
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
HELL'S KITCHEN — Good news for bier-lovers— this year, the German-American community will also say "Prost" in springtime with a May version of Oktoberfest.
The new "Maifest" on May 21 will transform the World Yacht headquarters at Pier 81 (41st Street and the West Side Highway) into a beer garden, complete with Bavarian pretzels, bratwurst and traditional Teutonic dance moves from a group called Schlierachtler Stam.
The event functions essentially as a cousin to Oktoberfest, according to Jason Hackett, chief marketing officer of New York Cruise Lines. Where the fall event heralds the end of summer, Maifest celebrates the season's onset.
"It really creates a fun festival atmostphere," Hackett said of plans to put long tables, a big marquee tent and "Maipole" on the company's roughly 1,000 foot long pier.
The brew of choice for attendees — up to 2,000 will fit, Hackett said — will be German Paulaner beer.
Garden-goers can also cast ballots to help choose this year's Miss German America. The organizers of this fall's German American Steuben Parade will consider that vote before making their the final decision.
Admission to the event, scheduled for noon to 4:30 p.m., is $15 online or $20 on the day of.
