OLD WORLD VILLAGE

While Orange County is called home by people of many cultures, finding a European flavor in one stop is a tough order. But at Old World Village, at least, visitors can douse themselves in all things German--from lederhosen to oompah music.

More than 40 families live in the village, above the shops and restaurants they own and operate. The ethnic charm of the place is abundant--the cobbled walkways, the painted designs on the stores’ exteriors, and the wooden signs hanging from wrought-iron posts above the doors.

A variety of goods are available at the village’s 30 or so shops, including German clothing and shoes, collectibles, crystal, porcelain, flowers and clocks. Two restaurants, a deli and a bakery tempt visitors with the smells of bratwurst, sauerkraut and other traditional German treats.

The 13-room Hotel Europe can accommodate guests wishing to stay overnight. The 150-seat Old World Village Chapel offers Sunday services in both English and German and is available for weddings.

The village in Huntington Beach celebrated its 10th anniversary last year. The year before the shops opened, the first Oktoberfest was held on the grounds. On an average weekend 500 people visit the village, but the crowds number in the thousands during Oktoberfest weekends. This year’s Oktoberfest kicks off Sept. 24 with a parade at 2 p.m. and will continue through Nov. 12. Music, dancing and lots of German food and beer will be available, which seems the perfect time to visit Old World Village and revel in German culture.

Hours: Shops are open from 10 or 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. They will stay open later during Oktoberfest.

Address: 7561 Center Ave., Huntington Beach

Telephone: (714) 895-8020

Miscellaneous information: Restaurants open daily at 11 a.m. There will be live entertainment during Oktoberfest (Sept. 24 through Nov. 12) performed by oompah bands from Germany. Oktoberfest hours are 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, 7 to 11 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 6:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 to 9 p.m. Sunday.