Hosted by the Alpine Helen Volksmarch Club, the first annual Weihnachten (Christmas in German) 5k seemed like a fun event for the Meetup group for which I lead hikes. Unlike the traditional '5k', this is not a run, but an evening meander through the Bavarian-themed city of Helen to enjoy the holiday spirit in the form of Christmas light displays all around the main strip of town. After posting the event, I originally had five people sign-up, but by the time of the event, it was just myself and one other hiker.
After registering at the Loreley Resort's Clubhouse on the outskirts of town, we began our short walk through the streets, complete with map in hand. The path first took us across a short footbridge crossing the Chattahoochee River, which passes through town, but is much closer to its headwaters and therefore, much smaller. From there, we walked the streets past the Oktoberfest Beer Hall and into a park area with several brilliant light displays, all Christmas themed. It wasn't quite dark yet and so, the lights were not as impressive as they likely will be on the return trip in an hour or so.
Continuing through the streets of Helen, we're both taken by the number of people shuffling about in the touristy town. Some of whom are participating in the 5k, but the majority of whom are probably just here on their own. There is a festive mood in the air and the weather is just about perfect - cool, but cold.
We do struggle a little bit with the map as it is not exactly to scale, but it's not like we can get lost here in the streets of this little mountain town. Quickly, we find our way back to the intended route and begin look for the turn around near the western end of town. We cross the street and begin making our way back down the other side of Main Street. Along the way, we encounter the a line for the Christmas Train and then the Train itself, which is more of an amusement ferrying people up and down the main street to enjoy the same sights and Christmas spirit we are enjoying on foot.
Before returning to the resort for the raffle, we decide to stop for some dinner. Originally, we had both wanted to eat at one of the several German-themed restaurants, but as most had a long line, we settled on a Thai place. This turned out to be a great choice, as the food was fantastic. After our meal, we completed the walk and returned to the clubhouse just as the raffle was beginning. Neither of us ended up winning anything, but it was still a nice event and I look forward to possibly doing it again in the future.
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