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Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest – The Wild and Wonderful History

January 29, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

History of Oktoberfest 

A Toast to Tradition: The Wild and Wonderful History of Oktoberfest

It all started with a royal “I do” and a thundering horse race. On October 12, 1810, Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria married Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. To celebrate, they threw a party so epic it would become an annual tradition. Five days later, on October 17, Munich gathered at the city’s edge for horse races in honor of the newlyweds. That celebration laid the foundation for what we now know as Oktoberfest.

Fast forward to 1850, and Oktoberfest had become more than just a party—it was a parade of Bavarian pride. Each year, 8,000 people dressed in traditional attire march through the heart of Munich from Maximilian Street to the Wiesn, led by the symbolic Münchner Kindl (Munich Child). That same year, the imposing Bavaria statue was completed, standing tall above Theresienwiese, forever watching over the revelers below like a stein-wielding guardian angel of the festival.

Of course, not all years were brimming with bratwurst and beer. In 1854 and again in 1873, cholera epidemics halted the festivities. In 1866 and 1870, wars kept the steins dry. But Oktoberfest kept bouncing back, evolving with the times. By 1880, electric lights twinkled above the tents. The following year, bratwurst booths joined the fun. In 1892, glass beer mugs made their first appearance—giving everyone a crystal-clear view of their favorite beverage.

As Oktoberfest strutted into the 20th century, it kept getting bigger and better. In 1887, the now-famous Entry of the Oktoberfest Staff and Breweries debuted, showcasing magnificent beer wagons, costumed workers, and oompah bands parading through the streets. It’s still the grand kickoff to Oktoberfest today.

By 1910, Oktoberfest turned 100—and the party was as grand as you’d expect. An eye-popping 120,000 liters of beer were served, and a new legend was born: the Bräurosl tent, which could hold an incredible 12,000 thirsty guests. Today’s heavyweight is the Hofbräu-Festhalle, packing in 10,000 merrymakers.

The Dark Years: When the Taps Went Dry
Oktoberfest hasn’t always been a guaranteed good time. Between 1914 and 1918, World War I put a full stop to the celebration. Post-war austerity turned Oktoberfest into a humbler “Autumn Fest” for a couple of years. Then came the 1920s and a nasty bout of hyperinflation that put another dent in the keg.

By 1933, politics crept in as the Bavarian flag was replaced with the swastika under Nazi rule. World War II brought yet another halt from 1939 to 1945. Even in the late 1940s, Munich had to make do with low-alcohol beer and toned-down “Autumn Fests.” All told, Oktoberfest has been canceled 24 times due to war, disease, or disaster—but never for lack of spirit.

The Modern Era: Big Tents, Big Beers, and Big Changes
Since 1950, a boisterous and beloved tradition has kicked things off: At noon on opening day, the Mayor of Munich taps the first keg and shouts, “O’zapft is!” (“It’s tapped!”). With a 12-gun salute and the ceremonial passing of the first beer to the Bavarian Minister-President, the festivities begin. The honor of that first tap went to Mayor Thomas Wimmer—and the ritual still kicks off Oktoberfest today.

By the 1960s, Oktoberfest was an international sensation. Tourists began associating Germans with feathered Sennerhüte, Lederhosen, and women in Dirndls—and, for better or worse, the stereotype stuck. That same year marked the end of the original horse races, but no one seemed to miss them amid the sea of pretzels and polkas.

Of course, with millions of beers being poured, a few overzealous drinkers always end up going down for the count. Enter the term “Bierleichen”—beer corpses. These are the partygoers who pass out and are gently carted off to medical tents for a nap and a recovery snack.

To make the festival more family-friendly, 2005 introduced the idea of a “quiet Oktoberfest.” Before 6 PM, tents limit their music to mellow brass bands playing traditional tunes at no more than 85 decibels—loud enough to lift your spirits, but soft enough for Grandma to enjoy her stein in peace. After dark, things ramp up with Schlager and pop music, keeping the late-night crowd grooving (and hopefully not brawling).

Also returning in 2005 was a beloved blast from the past: the Mondlift, Germany’s last traveling Enterprise ride. It’s the perfect thrill after a liter or two—if your stomach can handle it.

In 2008, things got a little less smoky. A Bavarian law banned smoking in enclosed public spaces, including the beer tents. But Oktoberfest found a loophole: since the tents are technically temporary structures, smoking was allowed, though selling tobacco inside was a no-go. That rule held firm into 2009 and beyond, with the smoke slowly clearing out of the beer halls.

Oktoberfest Today: A Global Icon
From royal weddings to wartime interruptions, from candlelit tents to laser-lit beer halls, Oktoberfest has seen it all. Today, it’s a glorious mix of old-school charm and modern flair—where tradition meets turbo-charged fun. Whether you’re hoisting a Maß in Munich or throwing your own backyard Oktoberfest, remember: It’s not just a festival—it’s a feeling.

 

Top 10 Oktoberfest Celebrations in the U.S.

1. Oktoberfest Zinzinnati – Cincinnati, Ohio

As the largest Oktoberfest celebration in the United States, Oktoberfest Zinzinnati transforms downtown Cincinnati into a vibrant Bavarian village each September. Drawing nearly a million visitors annually, the festival is famous for its quirky events like the Running of the Wieners dachshund race and the World’s Largest Chicken Dance. Featuring more than 50 varieties of beer, authentic German food, and nonstop polka music, Zinzinnati delivers the closest American experience to Munich’s original.

2. Nashville Oktoberfest – Nashville, Tennessee

Held in the historic Germantown district, the Nashville Oktoberfest blends Southern hospitality with Bavarian tradition. Spanning multiple city blocks, this four-day celebration offers authentic German beers, bratwursts, schnitzels, and plenty of festive entertainment. Highlights include the massive beer garden, live German bands, a 5K Bier Run, and the wildly popular Dachshund Derby. It’s one of the South’s liveliest fall festivals, attracting hundreds of thousands each year.

3. Wurstfest – New Braunfels, Texas

Wurstfest is a unique Texas twist on a traditional German celebration, taking place along the Comal River in New Braunfels—a town founded by German settlers. This 10-day “Salute to Sausage” combines carnival rides, oompah bands, polka dancing, and a smorgasbord of German and Texan cuisine. The atmosphere is electric, with thousands gathering each night to raise steins and dance in dirndls and lederhosen.

4. Frankenmuth Oktoberfest – Frankenmuth, Michigan

Often called “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth boasts a charming Bavarian aesthetic that makes it the perfect backdrop for an Oktoberfest celebration. In fact, its Oktoberfest is the only one outside Germany officially sanctioned by Munich’s original organizers. Guests can expect Hofbräuhaus beer, traditional German folk dancing, and plenty of pretzels and schnitzel—all set within a storybook town that feels like a European escape.

5. La Crosse Oktoberfest – La Crosse, Wisconsin

One of the oldest and most respected Oktoberfest events in the Midwest, La Crosse Oktoberfest began in 1961 and has been a staple of Wisconsin tradition ever since. The multi-day festival includes grand parades, tapping of the golden keg, live performances, and a large Oktoberfest grounds with food stalls and beer tents. Nestled along the Mississippi River, La Crosse delivers a scenic and spirited atmosphere that keeps locals and tourists coming back year after year.

6. Helen Oktoberfest – Helen, Georgia

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Helen is a recreated Bavarian village that feels tailor-made for Oktoberfest. The celebration here spans multiple weeks from mid-September to late October, making it the longest-running Oktoberfest in the United States. The Helen Festhalle becomes the heart of the action, where polka bands, hearty food, and beer flow freely in a uniquely picturesque setting.

7. Leavenworth Oktoberfest – Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth, a charming Alpine-style village in the Cascades, hosts one of the most beloved Oktoberfests in the Pacific Northwest. The festival features traditional German bands flown in from Europe, a Kinderplatz for families, and three massive beer gardens. With its cobblestone streets, half-timbered architecture, and mountain views, Leavenworth offers a picture-perfect setting for fall festivities.

8. Mount Angel Oktoberfest – Mount Angel, Oregon

This Oregon town with deep German roots has been celebrating Oktoberfest since 1966, and it’s one of the most family-friendly and culturally rich in the country. The festival features multiple venues, each with its own theme, live entertainment, and food offerings. From the Weingarten to the Biergarten, Mount Angel Oktoberfest celebrates music, dancing, and culinary traditions in the shadow of a beautiful Benedictine Abbey.

9. Fredericksburg Oktoberfest – Fredericksburg, Texas

In the heart of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg’s German heritage comes alive each fall during Oktoberfest. Known for its welcoming charm, this three-day event features craft beer, local wine, Bavarian bands, and artisan markets. With a laid-back pace and scenic surroundings, Fredericksburg Oktoberfest is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed and intimate experience.

10. Oktoberfest Denver – Denver, Colorado

Held over two weekends in the historic Ballpark neighborhood, Denver’s Oktoberfest has become a Rocky Mountain tradition. Founded in 1969, the event features stein-hoisting competitions, keg bowling, bratwurst eating contests, and plenty of German beer. With the Denver skyline as its backdrop, this high-altitude celebration fuses Colorado craft with Old World tradition.

 

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Filed Under: Beer, craftbeer, Oktoberfest

Prost! Athletic Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest Returns

September 11, 2023 by Spencer Mapes

MILFORD, Connecticut and SAN DIEGO, California— Athletic Brewing Company, America’s leading producer of non-alcoholic craft beer, announced the fifth annual release of its classic non-alcoholic Oktoberfest. This seasonal Fest Brew was created to pair perfectly with fall weather and autumn activities, from cool hikes to homecoming tailgate parties.

Inspired by traditional Bavarian Festbiers, this flavorful, slightly-sweet golden brew boasts a clean malt backbone from Vienna and Munich malts, and light bitterness from a dosing of Hallertau Mittelfruh hops. It pairs well with everything from hot pretzels to hearty, cool-weather dishes, and contains only 70 calories.

“Our Oktoberfest brew is reminiscent of what you’d experience during the Bavarian fall season,” explains Marco Garcia, Brewery Manager at Athletic Brewing Company. “It’s full-bodied with malty undertones, and delicately balanced with a slight hop finish. This brew pairs perfectly with the crisp autumn air and is best enjoyed with friends and family.”

Sporting a new look in 2023, Athletic Brewing’s Oktoberfest was a first-of-its-kind non-alcoholic brew in America when it was first released in 2019. It is now available nationwide at select U.S. retailers in 6-pack 12 oz. cans for between $9.99 – $11.99. It is also available in 6-pack 12 oz. cans for $14.99 on athleticbrewing.com.

About Athletic Brewing Company

Athletic Brewing, founded in 2017 by Bill Shufelt and John Walker, is the 13th largest craft brewer in America and the leading producer of non-alcoholic craft beer. The company’s brews are distributed in all 50 states and available at over 50,000 retail stores nationwide. In 2023, Athletic was ranked as the 4th fastest-growing company in the Americas by Financial Times. Athletic was also ranked as the fastest-growing U.S. beverage manufacturer by Inc. Magazine in 2022, and named one of TIME’s “100 Most Influential Companies.” The company has won over 75 prestigious brewing awards, including Gold & Silver for its Run Wild and Free Wave IPAs in the 2022 US Open of Beer Championship. It was also named the North American Brewer of the Year at the 2022 International Beer Challenge. Athletic has custom breweries in Milford, Connecticut, and San Diego, and donates up to $2 million annually to protecting and restoring outdoor spaces across the globe via its Two For The Trails program. Athletic Brewing is proudly a Certified B Corporation. Its full-flavored near beers and hop-infused sparkling waters are available on athleticbrewing.com

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Filed Under: Non-Alcoholic Beer, Oktoberfest Tagged With: Athletic, Athletic Brewing, Non-Alcoholic Beer, Oktoberfest

PROST! Tennessee Brew Works Releases Their Limited Oktoberfest

September 5, 2023 by Spencer Mapes

NASHVILLE, Tennessee— Embrace the spirit of German beer culture as Tennessee Brew Works proudly announces the highly anticipated annual release of this year’s Oktoberfest! Beer enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike are cordially invited to join us at the Tennessee Brew Works taproom, located at 809 Ewing Avenue in Nashville for the release Friday, September 1, starting at 11 am.

Brewed once a year, this 5.2% ABV, 17 IBU German-style Märzen is a sessionable welcome to the fall here in Tennessee. Enjoy delicious rich malt, bready and biscuit characteristics with light toasted notes on finish. The hop bitterness is clean and soft.

Oktoberfest will be available on draft, and in 16oz can 4-packs and 24-pack cases to-go at the Tennessee Brew Works taproom, starting at 11am Friday, September 1.

Oktoberfest will also be available with limited distribution around the greater Nashville metropolitan area, Clarksville, Cookeville, Knoxville, Tri-Cities, Chattanooga, and West Tennessee.

PROST! EIN TOAST!

About Tennessee Brew Works

Tennessee Brew Works is an independently owned and operated craft brewery that opened in 2013 with a mission to create high quality craft beer that pays homage to the land, traditions, and culture of Tennessee.

Tennessee Brew Works proudly introduced the state’s first All-Tennessee grain beers in 2018 with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture. Our all-Tennessee grain State Park Blonde Ale is the official beer of the Tennessee State Parks and benefits the TSP Conservancy for the preservation of the state’s 57 State Parks.

We brew beers with integrity, using only quality natural ingredients and source them from local farms whenever possible. We cater to those that appreciate the difference. Tennessee Brew Works is owned and operated by folks in Tennessee. Our motto: “We work hard to create high quality craft beer that makes Tennessee proud. Our culture places importance on family, friends, and community, and we hope you’ll be a part of it.”

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Filed Under: Beer, craftbeer, Oktoberfest Tagged With: Oktoberfest, Tennessee Beer, Tennessee Brew Works

San Diego’s Karl Strauss Brewing Releases Oktoberfest Beer for 35th Year

August 22, 2023 by Spencer Mapes

SAN DIEGO, California – Karl Strauss, San Diego’s longest continuously operating post-Prohibition brewing company, released its seasonal Oktoberfest beer for the 35th year in a row. Brewmaster Paul Segura made the announcement.

The German-style Märzen lager, which has a 5.0% ABV and a golden amber color, is available on draft at Karl Strauss’s four San Diego brewpubs in 4S Ranch, Carlsbad, Downtown San Diego, and Sorrento Mesa, as well as at several bars and restaurants throughout the County. The beer is also available on draft at Karl Strauss brewpubs in Anaheim, Costa Mesa, Downtown Los Angeles, and Temecula.

Six packs of 12-oz Oktoberfest bottles are available at all eight brewpubs and at retail locations such as 7-Eleven, Costco, CVS, Ralphs, Sprouts, and Vons.

“In a world of ever-changing beer styles, our Oktoberfest stands as a timeless classic – an original masterpiece that pays homage to the heart and soul of this Bavarian brewing tradition,” Segura said. “No doubt, this is one that both our team and our fans get most excited for each year.”

The official 2023 Oktoberfest celebration in Germany takes place from September 16 – October 3. This year marks the 188th festival. Karl Strauss’s Oktoberfest beer uses a blend of Vienna and Munich malts, along with Perle hops imported from the Hallertau region of Germany. It has toasted malt flavors, nutty undertones, and a crisp, clean finish.

In addition to traditional pints, Karl Strauss brewpubs will offer an Oktoberfest stein-and-fill promotion for $15. Refills of Oktoberfest or any Karl Strauss core beer in the newly-designed take-home stein are just $6. The beer will be available through October 31.

Karl Strauss released its first version of an Oktoberfest beer “Blonde Bavarian Oktoberfest Beer” in 1989, the same year the brewery was founded. Blonde Bavarian was part of Karl Strauss’s first Oktoberfest celebration at the brewery’s original location on Columbia Street in Downtown San Diego.

On July 30, it was announced that Karl Strauss was voted as one of San Diego’sBest Craft Breweries in The San Diego Union-Tribune’s 2023 Readers Poll. Only 10 made the list. A Karl Strauss beer garden in San Marcos is expected to open in September.

About Karl Strauss Brewing Company

Karl Strauss Brewing Company has been proudly independent since 1989, pioneering the craft beer scene throughout San Diego and beyond with innovative and award-winning releases. It has an ongoing collaboration series with some of the nation’s most well-respected breweries, and are known for launching exciting brands like Tower X West Coast IPA, as well as cult classics like Red Trolley.

For Brewing fun facts, trivia, movies and more, Click Here.

Filed Under: Beer, craftbeer, Oktoberfest Tagged With: Karl Strauss, Oktoberfest, San Diego Beer

Great Lakes Brewing Co. Oktoberfest Returns, Brewery Sponsors Cleveland Oktoberfest

August 17, 2023 by Spencer Mapes

CLEVELAND, Ohio— Great Lakes Brewing Co. (GLBC) announces the return of seasonal favorite Oktoberfest, available now in cans, bottles, and draft.

Often lauded as an American-brewed benchmark of the style, GLBC’s Oktoberfest is a malty, toasty seasonal lager brewed with a blend of Munich and Caramel malts, and is 6.5% alcohol by volume. Great Lakes Brewing Co. Oktoberfest is available now throughout the brewery’s distribution footprint in 6-Pack Bottles, 12-Pack Bottles, 12-Pack Cans, and Draft.

Beer Details:

Flavor: Prost! Our take on this classic German style is a real malt party, packed with toasty autumnal flavors perfect for hearty hoisting.

ABV: 6.5%

Packages: 6-Pack Bottles, 12-Pack Bottles, 12-Pack Cans, Draft

Release: Seasonal, August

In addition to the seasonal release of Oktoberfest, Great Lakes Brewing Co. is proud to return as the official second weekend sponsor of Cleveland Oktoberfest, taking place September 8 – 9 at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds. As the featured beer sponsor for the 2nd weekend, GLBC will serve a variety of draft offerings like the award-winning Oktoberfest throughout the entire fairground. GLBC beer will be available in the event’s Craft Bier Hall both weekends, and the brewery is proud to once again sponsor the event’s Great Lakes 5K Bier Run & One Mile Walk on September 4, benefiting University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital.

About Great Lakes Brewing Co.

Great Lakes Brewing Co. (GLBC) is Ohio’s original craft brewery, founded in 1988 by brothers Patrick and Daniel Conway in Cleveland, Ohio. Now celebrating its 35th anniversary, GLBC is independent and employee-owned, and serves 14 states and Washington, D.C. with its award-winning portfolio of fresh, flavorful, and innovative crafted beverages including Vibacious Double IPA, Hazecraft Hazy IPA, Dortmunder Gold Lager, and a robust selection of seasonal and limited release offerings.

For Brewing fun facts, trivia, movies and more, Click Here.

Filed Under: Beer, craftbeer, Oktoberfest Tagged With: Great Lakes, Great Lakes Brewing, Oktoberfest

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