prost! it's oktoberfest time again

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Don't be fooled by the name; Oktoberfest actually starts in mid-September. This year's dates are September 20 to October 5, so even if you're not planning a trip to Munich (bummer), you have plenty of time to throw your own Oktoberfest celebration.

Here's how:

• Beer. Pale lagers are traditional at the offish event. Need beer advice? We have lots of it, yes. we. do.
• Our girl Grace's delicious Oktoberfest pizza, topped with bratwurst, apples and caramelized onions.
• In addition to brats, serve other German favorites like chicken, pretzels, sauerkraut, braised red cabbage and German-style potato salad (mmm, warm and bacony).
• A little history: The first Oktoberfest was held in Munich on October 12, 1810, to commemorate the marriage of King Ludwig I and Queen Therese. And no, it wasn't a sloppy beerfest; they celebrated with a horse race.
• A little explanation of the name discrepancy: The earliest Oktoberfests were held in October. In later years, the festival start date was pushed up into September. Why? Warmer weather. Hotter days make for thirstier beer drinkers. Smart!
• The festival officially opens at noon with a 12-gun salute and the tapping of the first keg. You can simulate this by asking your guests to join you in 12 rousing shouts of "Pew! Pew! Pew!" as you pop the top on the first beer bottle of the day.
• Watch this scene from National Lampoon's European Vacation. Bonus points for learning the dance.

Comments

If you're like me, hosting your own Oktoberfest isn't really in the cards. The upside: there's no shortage of great local festivals. I went to the the one in Big Bear last year, where you can get your fix of log-sawing contests, live music, endless draft beer, and lederhosen galore. Believe you me, its a magical combo of activities... and that's not just the lager talking.

If you can't make it out to that one, there are festivals all over:
http://www.novusvinum.com/features/topoktoberfest_us.html

Thanks!
These are great ideas!
We have been using "Oktoberfest" as an excuse to get together in September for the last couple of years.
We'll probably do some games. Any suggestions are welcome!