138 Years of Cannstatter Volksfest in Phila.

An age-old German tradition has long-standing roots in Philadelphia.

KYW's Mike Dougherty reports that just about every adult was carrying a beer (or a pitcher) at Cannstatter Volksfest in Torresdale, a harvest festival rich with tradition. Godfrey Keebler, the famed biscuit maker who helped make elves famous, started this organization in Philadelphia in 1873.

Chris Hess, 2nd vice president, says festival began as a way to make use surplus fruits and vegetables from the area:

"What it means is they celebrated the harvest by building a giant fruit column with all the goods that were left over."

Nowadays, it's raising money for various charities, and providing fun for all ages.

Ginny was enjoying some polka:

"It's funny watching people attempt it. That's my favorite part, just looking and laughing."

(Dougherty:) "How are your polka skills?"

"My polka skills are mediocre, but when you have a few drinks in you, you don't really care."

Others were enjoying the delectable German food and drinking frosty beers out of glass boots.

The event lasts through Monday afternoon, for more information, visit http://www.cvvphilly.com/