What is Oktoberfest and why is it in September, you ask?
Well, this Bavarian culture blowout started in October of 1810 as a royal wedding celebration for Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese. It was so much fun, the people wanted to do it again every year for their anniversary. And over time, this Bavarian culture blowout became a worldwide event, featuring oompah music, parades, street dancing, beer tents and traditional foods like brats, pretzels, and schnitzel—and September weather is simply better for this sort of thing. So the “party officials” of Munich simply fudged the dates a little. And the Oktoberfest beer has been flowing from mid-September until the beginning of October ever since.
Are You Drinking Legit German Oktoberfest Beers?
Only 67 German breweries are officially sanctioned to make Oktoberfest beers, and our beer guru Don Thornton has curated his favorite fest beers for you from that list, including full-bodied, amber colored Ayinger Oktoberfest, classic dark Bavarian Bayern Oktoberfest Lager, and balanced, easy-drinking Hofbrau Oktoberfest. (Supplies are limited so availability will vary by market.) Shop our Oktoberfest collection here and get seasonal Oktoberfest fare delivered to your door or arranged for pick-up.
Of course, our talented Washington brewmasters have created an exciting bunch of fest-inspired beers right here at home. So, let’s dust off our lederhosen and dirndls, warm up our drinking-song voices, and set up an Oktoberfest beer tasting.
It’s Party Time
Don suggests finding a nice deck on a sunny fall afternoon and pairing the contenders with some really good brats – T&C brats are made in-house! – and a nice German mustard. Need ideas for your beer flight? Come see us in Beer, Wine and Spirits. We have lots of recommendations for you.
Will the official Munich beers beat out our PNW-made brews at your table? We want to know. Share your Oktoberfest beer ratings on Instagram @tandcmarkets. Prost!
(21+ only to purchase alcohol. ID required for alcohol delivery and pick-up.)