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Upon hearing the news that we would be moving to Germany, visions of doughy pretzels and, of course, pints of hoppy goodness flashed through my head. As a beer aficionado, living in the land of authentic German beer is pretty amazing. With a rich history dating back to medieval times, it’s no wonder most Volksfeste include raising a pint or two of Germany’s national beverage. From the behemoth of Oktoberfest in Munich to the smaller Gillamoos Fair in Abensberg, there is no shortage of beer festivals. The hard part is choosing which one to attend.
Gillamoos, AbensbergAug. 30-Sep. 3
Located in the heart of the Deutsche Hopfenstraße (German Hops Road), it’s no wonder the charming village of Abensberg is home to a fantastic festival dating back more than 1,000 years. Gillamoos, held in honor of St. Gilg am Moos, is held over a five-day period each year. Visitors can wash down traditional Bavarian fare with a specialty beer from one of the regions breweries. Be sure to catch the dazzling pyrotechnic displays throughout the festival.
If you have a little more time, stop by Kuchlbauer Brewery. This legendary eighth generation brewer has been specializing in Weissbier (wheat beer) for nearly a century. With only six varieties — including one alcohol-free option — Kuchlbauer has all but perfected the art of brewing. Take a guided tour of the modest-sized facilities, and be sure to take in the view from the Kuchlbauer Tower. This whimsical observation deck has more than 4,000 Weissbier steins and an explanation of Reinheitsgebot, the German Purity Law.
Bierbörse, throughout GermanyThrough Sep. 16
In 1987, Bierbörse began with a couple of local breweries setting up pop-up tents in Leverkusen-Opladen. Beer lovers came to the tents to sample freshly tapped editions of sudsy goodness. As the popularity of the event grew, the founders added another city (Düsseldorf ) to see if there was demand. Thirty years later, Bierbörse has spread to 25 cities throughout the country. Although the flavors and location may change, the heart of the festival remains the same — high-quality regional beer.
More than 30 local breweries and eateries will be on hand to provide a delicious sampling of this year’s specialty brews and tasty treats. You won’t find games or rides at these festivals — simply delicious beer and local cuisine. The 2018 Bierbörse season ends Sept. 16 in Hamm.
Oktoberfest, MunichSept. 22-Oct. 7
Oktoberfest. That one word easily conjures up images of Lederhosen and Dirndl-wearing visitors singing at the top of their lungs, while raising overflowing steins of Bavarian beer. More than six million visitors visit the world’s largest festival every year. Even if you’re not much of a crowd person, the sheer awesomeness of this fest is worth experiencing at least once. Only six breweries — Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Lowenbräu, Hofbräu, Paulaner and Spaten — are allowed to serve beer on the festival grounds. The beers are brewed according to Reinheitsgebot and are made specifically for Oktoberfest.
If toasting with thousands of your newest friends leaves you feeling a bit drained, head to Marienplatz in the Munich Altstadt. Avoid the tourist trappings of Hofbräu and head directly across the street to Wirtshaus Ayinger. Ayinger brews both traditional Bavarian-style and inventive craft beer. If you’re feeling a little hungry, try one of the beer-infused dishes offered. Dinner reservations are recommended.
Cannstatter Volksfest, StuttgartSept. 28-Oct. 14
With humble beginnings as an agricultural fair started by King Wilhelm I almost 200 years ago, the Cannstatter Volksfest in Stuttgart has evolved into the second-largest Volksfest in Germany. Quickly rivaling Munich’s Oktoberfest in popularity, don your Dirndl and hit the Wasen for thrilling rides, fantastic fest food and, of course, frosty beverages. Four of the larger breweries — Fürstenberg, Schwaben Bräu, Stuttgarter Hofbräu and Dinkelacker — produce specialty brews for the festival. Tent seating fills quickly, so be sure to make a reservation to guarantee your spot.
If crowds leave you feeling a bit overwhelmed, slow your roll and visit one of the smaller microbreweries in the area. Located 15 minutes from the Wasen, Cast Brauerei has been creating small-batch craft brews since 2010. With a relaxed atmosphere and a departure from the typical wheat-based German beer, you’re sure to recharge your batteries. For hops lovers, try the India Pale Ale (IPA) brewed with two local varieties of hops, or the seasonal Pumpkin Ale.
Freimarkt, BremenOct. 19-Nov. 4
Almost 1,000 years old, the Bremen Freimarkt is one of the world’s oldest fairs. For 17 days, this beautiful city in northern Germany is transformed into the third-largest beer festival in the country. More than 300 rides and attractions dot the carnival-like landscape. Be sure to check out the numerous tents and Biergärten. Local craft brewers create special brews such as robust porters, stouts and ales.
For a more in-depth look at local beer, book a 2- or 3-hour tour at Beck’s Brewery. Learn the history of this internationally known beverage, and take a behind-the-scenes look at the process of brewing from start to finish. Visitors must be 16 years of age or older, and you can reserve your tickets at www.becks.de.
If you can’t make it to one of these festivals, don’t despair. Most villages offer a smaller version of Oktoberfest, complete with the ceremonial mayoral keg tapping, singing and, of course, beer. Prost!
