Gertrude's Krautfest has openings

They're going fast, but there are still seats available for Gertrude's annual Krautfest on Friday, Jan. 13. A few spaces may also open up for Sat., Jan. 14.

The two-day event celebrates the release of the restaurant's homemade sauerkraut. Tickets are $40 each and include a reserved table, live polka music, and a buffet of sauerkraut dishes, including "krautie desserts."

The Krautfest also honors Gertrude's namesake, Gertie Cleary, the late grandmother of owner/chef John Shields. This year, the celebration falls on Gertie's birthday, Jan. 13.

If you can't make it to the party, you can still make sauerkraut at home. John Shields shared his recipe with us in our November issue. It's a keeper.

Photo of sauerkraut with apples, courtesy of epicurious.com