b'Gatlinburg in the fall is an almost magical time of the year. The mountains explode in a sea of colors, the cool crisp air just feels a bit more refreshing and amazing events are found around every corner. You can check out our calendar of events on page 21 for more of what the area has to offer this autumn, but here are a few featured events that Gatlinburg is offering up that are sure to be a highlight of your vacation. First up, from Sept. 24Oct. 31 is the 12th Annual OktoberFest at Ober. Ober Gatlinburg hosts this beloved event celebrating some of the time-honored traditions of the original Octoberfest held in Munich, Germany. It is an indoor and outdoor festival highlighting the food, music and specialty brewed ales. The month-long celebration features daily shows and an every-changing menu of food that is German inspired by the traditional Bavarian Festivals. Enjoy schnitzel, strudel, salted pretzels, sauerkraut and so much more! Accompanying the delicious grub is an Outdoor Bier Garden, the Smoky Mountain Oompah Band, dressed in authentic lederhosen while performing folk dances, yodels, oompah music and more. Enjoy the many activities that Ober Gatlinburg has to offer during the festival as well, with Ice Bumper Cars, Ski Mountain Coaster, Indoor Ice-Skating Rink, Alpine Slide and so much more! It is a festival that perfectly fits into the season and is loved by all who attend.If you need a scare and if you dare, from Oct. 230 Ripleys Haunted Adventure is hosting its Annual Fright Nights every weekend. Enjoy a howling good time as you experience thismulti-million-dollar haunted house with new theme and new ghouls stalking its dark corridors. Show start at 6:00 pm with a character parade to kick off the night. All of this is included with the regular price of admission, and you never know when special guests will show up to make the scares even more spectacular. Ripleys doesnt stop there though, as on October 31 a fantastic family event is held at the Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg with the Annual Trick or Treat Kickoff Karnival. Contest, costumed characters, candy and a pumpkin contest are just a few of the fun activities that go along with a safe trick or treat spot brought to you by the Gatlinburg Police and Fire Departments. The event is held just outside the Aquarium in the plaza and will feature numerous games, food vendors, and tons of candy to make it an unforgettableexperience for visitor of all ages. Rounding out the featured events in Gatlinburg is the Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff and Winterfest Kickoff, held on November 11 at Anakeesta. For over 30 years Gatlinburg has celebrated the kickoff of Winterfest with the foodiefestival that has live entertainment and mouth-watering homemade chili to sample. The official lighting ceremony for Winterfest featuring millions of twinkling lights adorning the Gatlinburg Winter Magic light displays throughout the city. It is perfect for the old, the young and the young at heart. SmokyMountainNavigator.com 111'