If you need a weekend getaway as the days grow dimmer, may I suggest one that involves the polka?

Okay, how about one that involves the polka and beer?

Better yet, how about the polka, beer, and hot springs baths.

Now we're talking.

You can get all three in Harrison Hot Springs, which is just a 90-minute drive from Vancouver. On October 24 and 25, the resort town is hosting the Harrison Beer Festival as part of BC Craft Beer Month.

The fest consists of three events. On Friday (October 24), there will be a cask night with a British pub-style atmosphere. The breweries pouring will be Old Yale, Dead Frog, Four Winds, the Cannery, Red Truck, and Scandal.

Saturday (October 25) is the big day with two events. The signature tasting festival happens in the afternoon from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., where you can roam St. Alice Hall at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa and visit 23 breweries, each pouring at least three selections of beer. 

That night, it's time to polka at the Oktoberfest dance at St. Alice Hall with the Beer Barrel Band. Along with B.C. craft beer, there will be Ayinger Oktoberfest-Marzen beer from Germany flowing. Pretzels and bratwurst will also be represented, naturally, along with other German dishes like spaetzle and Black Forest cake. Not to worry--it will all be worked off with vigorous polka-ing.

Sunday, as well all know, is a day of rest--especially after a beer-fest Saturday. If you check into the Harrison Hot Springs resort, you will certainly want to spend some quality time soaking in the hot springs. There are also plenty of other accommodation options.

Festival tickets are now on sale. Both the tasting afternoon and the Oktoberfest evening sold out in advance last year (this is the third annual fest), so make your plans now. 

Then, watch this little polka primer and get ready to go!

You can follow Carolyn Ali on Twitter @carolynali and on Instagram @carolynali1