Between September 22nd-October 7th, raise your glass and shout out the German equivalent of "Cheers,"--"Prost!"--for Oktoberfest.
Oktoberfest is an annual festival that has been celebrated in Munich for over 200 years; however, cities around the world hold celebrations modeled after the Munich event.
In all honesty, I thought the Oktoberfest was solely an excuse to drink and boost the profits of German beer. Although in recent years, the festivity has served over 7 million liters of Oktoberfest Beer in Munich alone, Oktoberfest originated as a festival to celebrate the royal marriage of King Ludwig I and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen.
The 16-day festival grew over the years to include horse racing, an agricultural show, carnival booths, musicians, and beer halls.
In Birmingham, what better way is there to celebrate than to stop by the the German bar, Das Haus?
Das Haus has an impressive selection of 65+ beers, including authentic German brews such as the Oktoberfest beer. In addition the employees wearing traditional German attire and the Haus blasting German tunes, the local bar offers language classes at beginner and slightly advanced levels.
This year, several Birmingham venues are participating in Oktoberfest:
Das Haus
September 13-15
Das Haus will have the traditional Oktoberfest beer, authentic German food, and music to celebrate.
Avondale Brewing Company
October 4, 2012 ($30 online/$35 at the door)
Avondale Brewing Company will celebrate with a night of beer, brats, and music to support homeless families through the work of Birmingham Hospitality Network. The music will be played by Rollin' In The Hay.
FDSK & Rogue Tavern
September 1-30 (Admission charged)
Celebrate German heritage through an Oktoberfest. The best German food, oompah bands, arts and crafts and family fun.
Before you go, check out the different ways to say "Cheers!" in German:
-Prost!
-Zum Wohl!
-Trinksprüche! (This toast is typically used for special occasions such as weddings, retirements, and birthdays)
Viel Glück und auf Wiedersehen!
Good luck and goodbye!
