Oktoberfest with Family: Raise a Stein to the Season

Cooler nights, changing leaves and that unmistakable feeling of fall in the Tri-State area can only mean one thing: Oktoberfest season is here.

Whether you’re planning your own backyard Oktoberfest, firing up the grill for brats or simply looking for the perfect beer to enjoy on a crisp September evening, it’s a great time to explore one of beer’s tastiest traditions.

So, What Exactly Is Oktoberfest Beer?

Oktoberfest traces its roots to Munich, Germany, where the famous festival has been bringing people together for more than 200 years. And, of course, beer is a big part of the celebration. Two styles you’ll often hear about this time of year are Märzen and Festbier.

Märzen is the traditional fall beer many American beer drinkers associate with Oktoberfest. Typically amber to copper in color, it’s smooth and malty, with flavors that can bring to mind toasted bread or caramel without being overly sweet.

Festbier is generally lighter in color and body, with a crisp, clean finish that makes it especially easy to enjoy by the stein. It’s the style commonly served at today’s Oktoberfest celebration in Munich.

Plenty of American breweries get into the spirit, too, creating their own takes on German-style Oktoberfest beers. That makes September the perfect time to try a few and discover a new fall favorite.

What Goes with an Oktoberfest Beer?

Part of the fun is the food. Start with the classics: bratwurst, soft pretzels and mustard are practically made for Oktoberfest beer. These malty lagers also pair nicely with grilled sausages, roasted pork, schnitzel and hearty potato dishes.

And here in the Tri-State area, we certainly know a thing or two about good cheese. Try an Oktoberfest beer alongside aged cheddar, Gouda or another local favorite for an easy fall happy hour.

Hosting friends or family? Put together an Oktoberfest spread with brats, pretzel bites, mustards and cheeses, then add a few different Oktoberfest beers and let everyone find a favorite.

Host Your Own Oktoberfest

You don’t need a plane ticket to Munich—or lederhosen—to get into the Oktoberfest spirit. Pick a cool September afternoon, invite over your favorite people, fire up the grill and fill the cooler with a variety of seasonal beers. Add some German-inspired food, turn on the music and you have the makings of your own Oktoberfest celebration.

You could even turn it into a tasting. Choose a few Märzens, Festbiers and locally or regionally brewed Oktoberfest selections and compare them side by side. It’s an easy—and delicious—way to discover just how different each brewer’s interpretation can be.

Celebrate Oktoberfest with Family

Not sure which beer belongs in your stein? Stop by Family Beer & Liquor and explore the seasonal beers on our shelves. Whether you’re coming from Illinois, Iowa or Wisconsin, our team can help you find something new to try or stock you up for your own Oktoberfest celebration.

Because good beer, good food and good times are always better with Family.

Prost!