Are you looking to Oktoberfest? A Bavarian celebration that is just as much a verb as it is a noun. The original Oktoberfest in Munich was intended to celebrate the marriage of King Ludwig I and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen (…that’s a mouthful).
Technically, the holiday runs from the end of September through the first weekend in October. But not necessarily in Boston. You may have already missed Sam Adam’s Oktoberfest celebration but you certainly haven’t missed out on most Oktoberfest parties around the city — at least not yet. You too will soon be able to indulge endlessly on Bavarian pretzels, bratwurst, and strong brews – all while donning your lederhosen. Ow ow.
Here are a few parties bringing the German holiday closer to Boston:
Harpoon Octoberfest – October 4 – October 5
Every Bostonians favorite Oktoberfest is coming soon. This year marks the 24th Anniversary of the “original New England-style Octoberfest.” It will be a self-described festival of “beer, music, and Fall in New England at the Harpoon Brewery.” And of course will feature Fall Harpoon beer including their beloved UFO Pumpkin and Octoberfest. The music will feature “German Oompah bands.”
Old Magoun’s Saloon – Every Wednesday evening in September and October
This craft beer and bourbon bar located in Somerville will be featuring different German beers for the public to sample every Wednesday as well as a unique German themed Wednesday night menu.
Newburyport Oktoberfest 2013 – September 28
Hey, it’s close enough. You should be able to make a day trip or a weekend getaway out for this festival – and it would certainly be worth the trip. The community festival in Newburyport is famous for their food, music and of course, beer selection. It’s also free (so, there’s that).
The Salty Pig – September 22
On Sunday September 22, The Salty Pig is hosting their own Oktoberfest celebrations, where for $20, you can buy one entree (including spaetzle, bratwurst etc.) and one beer.
2013 Cambridge Oktoberfest 5K – October 6
This 5K event will culminate in a German celebration to end all celebrations. So grab your lederhosen and run on down to this self-described “wunderbar German-themed road race through Kendall Square, Cambridge, followed by an amazing Oktoberfest sponsored by Cambridge Brewing Co.” Register here today.
The Blue Room and Belly – September 22
If you choose to forego The Salty Pig then join these Kendall Square restaurants for the The Blue Room and Belly Oktoberfest patio party. For $35 you can enjoy endless amounts of German high caloric foods (yum) and two full beers in your stein. More beer is an additional charge. Just make sure you reserve your spot.
Bronwyn – October 3-6
This restaurant located in Union Square will be celebrating this season’s Oktoberfest with live music, German beers, and a special menu featuring German fare.
Tickets are $10 for those planning to attend between 12 and 5pm. And for those who want to celebrate in the evening, the tickets will be $15. You can buy them here at eventbrite.
Oktoberfest Sausagefest – October 6
Join Brasserie 28 and Jack’s Abby Brewing at the first Oktoberfest on Sunday, October 6. You will get to sample an assortment of homemade sausages from renowned Boston chefs such as Chef Brian Young of Post 390, Brian Poe of Poe’s Kitchen and the Tip Tap Room, Michael Sherman of Brasserie 28, Dante de Magistris of Dante, Chris Cronin of Washington Square Tavern and Matt O’Neill of The Blue Ox. Check out details here.
35th Annual Harvard Square Oktoberfest and HONK – October 13 at 12pm
With 35 years of celebrations under their belts, this festival know what its doing. Crazy marching bands, parades, live music and dancing will be taking over Cambridge very soon. Not to mention lots of horn blaring sounds – all to celebrate everyone’s favorite booze holiday.
Where will you be celebrating this Oktoberfest? Let us know in the comments below.
