Oktoberfest

The first Oktoberfest was on October 18, 1810 in Munich, Germany, and was held to commemorate the marriage of King Ludwig I and Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen.  Originally, the festival was based around a horse race, but now it is centered around consuming an exorbitant amount of German beer.   To put it into perspective, in 2007, almost seven million liters of beer were brought to the festival, while only one million liters of water were supplied. 

Oktoberfest is the world's largest fair, with about six million people from all over the world attending ever year.  The festival begins on the first Sunday of October and is still held in Munich in honor of Bavarian  culture .  The modern fair begins with a twelve gun salute and ceremoniously tapping a keg. After that, the drinking and eating commence throughout the 14 main tents.  Oxen, fish, and sausage are the staple of the Oktoberfest diet, and a wide variety of specialty beers is on tap, of course.  In addition, there is plenty of music and carnival rides.  

Oktoberfest Stein  You can't take the mugs with you, but you can buy a commemorative Oktoberfest stein or beer mug.  These are a great way to celebrate all year round.	Oktoberfest Costumes  If you can't make it to Germany, but you can make it to a Halloween party, you can always dress up as a hot Bavarian girl or a mountain yodeler.	Oktoberfest DVDs  These DVDs are a great way to see what being at Oktoberfest is like, in case you are thinking about jet-setting over there this fall.

Seasonal Beers

Just because you cannot make it to Munich does not mean you cannot celebrate Oktoberfest at home.  Breweries come out with seasonal Oktoberfest beers  every year to spread the Bavarian spirit.  Here are a few: Samuel Adams Oktoberfest : This is a widely available seasonal beer. Warsteiner Oktoberfest : From Germany, with an almost lemony flavor. Spaten Oktoberfest : Brewed in Germany; has a pleasant, easygoing flavor. Saranac Oktoberfest Lager : New York brewed, with a subtle roasty flavor. Penn Oktoberfest : Light amber, strong and zippy, from a Pennsylvania brewery. Brooklyn Oktoberfest : Very malty beverage from NYC.

Related Guides

Seasonal Guides	Beer Guide	Belgian Beer Guide	Ales Guide