The History of Oktoberfest
Every fall, beer lovers around the world raise a stein in celebration of Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival. This beloved tradition began over 200 years ago with a royal wedding in Munich. The festivities included horse races, music, food, and of course, beer. The event was such a hit that Munich decided to make it an annual tradition.
Over time, Oktoberfest evolved from a royal celebration into a 16 to 18-day beer festival attracting millions of visitors each year. Today, its spirit lives on in New York State thanks to an explosion of local craft breweries embracing German styles and Oktoberfest celebrations.
Beer Styles That Made Oktoberfest Famous
When people think of Oktoberfest beers, they often picture steins filled with rich, amber-colored lagers known as Märzen. Originally brewed in March and stored in cool caves during the summer, Märzen was released in the fall to celebrate the harvest. The style is malt-forward, smooth, and perfect for fall weather. Other traditional German styles like Festbier, Helles, and Dunkel also take center stage during the season.
Celebrating Oktoberfest in New York
You don’t need a passport to enjoy Oktoberfest. Here in New York State, breweries are putting on celebrations and brewing up their own versions of these classic German styles. So if you’re looking to make the most of it, here are ways you can celebrate Oktoberfest locally:
1. Attend an Oktoberfest Event
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Breweries throughout New York State have Oktoberfest celebrations going on all month long. If you’re looking for some to attend, we’ve rounded up a few:
- Here are 11 Oktoberfests Events Happening in Hudson Valley
- Check out where to Celebrate Oktoberfest in the Capital Region
- If you’re near NYC, here's a list of the Best Oktoberfest Events near you
- Don’t forget to check your local brewery calendars for more events going on near you!
2. Host an Oktoberfest Party
- Looking to host your own Oktoberfest at home? Drink NY Craft is offering a limited-edition Oktoberfest Beer Bundle so you can get seasonal beers delivered right to your doorstep. Get it before it’s gone!
Prost to Local Flavor
Oktoberfest is more than just a party; it’s a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and community. And with so many incredible New York breweries carrying the torch, it’s a great time to raise a glass to local beer.
So grab our Oktoberfest Beer Bundle at Drink NY Craft and celebrate the season. Prost!
