PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

For the first time in Pittsburgh’s history, a 60-foot Ferris wheel will be erected on the Roberto Clemente Bridge as part of the 11-day Oktoberfest Pittsburgh produced by the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership and other groups.

From Oct. 3-13, the Ferris wheel will be the centerpiece of the all-ages Karneval, which will feature food vendors, games and other activities on what’s also known as the Sixth Street Bridge. 

Over in Market Square, there will be the Biergarten, anchored by a beer tent emulating the famous Munich beer halls. Market Square will be transformed into a Bavarian Village and will host “feats of strength” games (stein holding, keg lift racing, barrel rolling and stein racing), traditional German music, food and other activities. Hours for Market Square activities will run from noon to 8 p.m. on weekdays and noon to 10 p.m. on weekends.

The Ferris Wheel harkens back to Pittsburgh historical roots: George Ferris, a civil engineer, came to Pittsburgh to found a bridge-building company and came up with the idea of the Ferris wheel when living on the North Side. It was showcased for the first time at the World’s Columbian Exposition — also known as the Chicago World’s Fair — in 1893. Ferris’ home on Arch Street is a City of Pittsburgh designated historical structure.

Entrance to all Oktoberfest activities will be free, except for a $5 charge for timed tickets to ride the Ferris wheel. Rides (which will take about 10 minutes) and other activities on the bridge will run daily from noon to 10 p.m., but there will be extended hours from noon to midnight on Sunday, Oct. 6. (after the Steelers game against the Dallas Cowboys)

All Ferris wheel riders must be at least 42 inches to board, children must ride with an adult and there will be two people per seat (no single riders).

The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership is hosting the events also with RiverLife and Flyspace Productions and other sponsors.