Happy mid-September! Between summer coming to a close and the school year starting back up, everyone could use a nice celebration to kick off the season of fall – and what could be better than toasting with some big ol’ beers and bratwurst?
Oktoberfest has been a tradition for centuries and remains one of the biggest weekends of the year for Germans today. A tradition that once started in Germany has even become incredibly popular in the states. If you can’t make it to Munich, where the big event is held, no need to worry! Local restaurants, big city bars, and even families throw their very own Oktoberfest parties here in America. With foods such as bratwurst, sauerkraut, pork tenderloin sandwiches, potato pancakes, and more you can stuff your face while slugging down a few steins too all while getting to play dress up… now, what’s better than that?
Now you may be asking yourself why Oktoberfest is celebrated in late September and I’ll be happy to share some history on the big weekend event. In 1810, the first Oktoberfest ever was held in honor of the Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig’s marriage to Princess Therese Von Saschsen-Hildburghausen. The festivities originally began in mid-October but the Germans changed the gathering to late September to allow for warmer weather conditions.
A traditional Oktoberfest includes massive, beautiful gardens aligned with dozens of beer tents and food stands, and German music filling the streets. With thousands of people getting together with family and friends this weekend-long event truly kicks off the season of fall with nothing but good vibes and happy times.
To name a few local Oktoberfest celebrations there are…
Oktoberfest Montclair in Lackawanna Plaza, Montclair, NJ on September 23rd from 12PM – 8PM
The Horseneck Tavern, North Caldwell, NJ on September 29th, 30th, and October 1stt
The Asbury Festhalle Biergarten, Asbury Park, NJ on September 29th through October 22nd
You can also click here to view NYC’s wide variety of Oktoberfest events!
Overall, if you browse around the internet, I’m sure there are tons of celebrations happening at venues in the area.
If you’ve never been to Oktoberfest before it is a one of a kind weekend that you definitely will never forget. May the kickoff to your fall be nothing but a big celebration. Cheers!
*Her Campus Montclair does not encourage underage drinking. Please drink responsibly :)