Grab your lederhosen and dust off your stein—Oktoberfest is here, and it’s time to celebrate as the Bavarians do! This legendary festival started way back in 1810 to toast a royal wedding and has grown into a global bash, bringing together beer lovers, foodies, and anyone looking for a good time.

At the heart of it all? Classic German brews. Whether you’re a fan of wheat beers or just here for the good vibes, Oktoberfest is all about sipping (or chugging!) your favourite beer and soaking up the traditions that make this festival unique. Luckily, Angry Otter Liquor has all the imported beers you need to keep the Oktoberfest spirit alive at home.

Ready to dive into the history, brews, and snacks that make Oktoberfest unforgettable? Let’s raise a glass and get started!

The History and Significance of Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest isn’t just an excuse to drink great beer (though we won’t argue with that!); it’s a festival steeped in tradition. It all started in 1810 with the grand wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. Munich was invited to join the festivities, which included days of feasting, horse racing, and lots of beer.

The celebration was such a hit that Munich decided to make it an annual event, eventually evolving into the Oktoberfest we know and love today. Held every fall, it’s now the world’s largest beer festival, attracting millions from across the globe. But even if you can’t make it to Munich, you can still celebrate Oktoberfest with the same enthusiasm—swap the Bavarian tents for your backyard and head to Angry Otter Liquor to stock up on all the best German brews.

While the festival may have grown to include amusement rides and massive beer halls, the heart of Oktoberfest remains the same: enjoying great beer, hearty food, and the company of friends. And honestly, who can say no to that?

Classic German Beer Styles and What to Pair with Them

No Oktoberfest celebration is complete without the perfect lineup of German beers. These iconic brews are as much a part of the festival as lederhosen and pretzels. Here’s a breakdown of the must-try beer styles that should be filling your stein:

Märzen: The star of the show! Märzen is the traditional Oktoberfest beer, brewed in March (hence the name) and allowed to age until fall. Its malty sweetness and amber hue make it the perfect cozy brew for autumn. If you want to keep your Oktoberfest celebration authentic, choose this beer.

For a classic pairing, enjoy it with bratwurst and sauerkraut. The malty sweetness of Märzen beautifully complements the savoury, slightly tangy flavours of the bratwurst and sauerkraut. Are you hosting your own Oktoberfest party? Impress your guests with a batch of House-Made Sauerkraut for an extra special touch!

Hefeweizen: If you’re looking for something lighter, a Hefeweizen is a fantastic choice. This wheat beer is characterized by its cloudy appearance and refreshing notes of banana and clove, making it ideal for anyone who enjoys a fruity, spicy kick while keeping things crisp.

For a perfect pairing, try it with schnitzel. The light, fruity notes of Hefeweizen beautifully balance the rich, crispy goodness of the fried coating. Its citrusy banana flavours cut through the heaviness, making each bite as refreshing as the last. Enjoy this delightful combo during your Oktoberfest celebrations!

Pilsner: If you’re in the mood for something clean and hoppy, a Pilsner is your perfect choice. This golden lager boasts a crisp, refreshing finish and a light bitterness that pairs wonderfully with just about any snack you have on hand. It’s a crowd-pleaser for a reason!

One classic pairing? Pretzels with mustard—a match made in Oktoberfest heaven! The Pilsner’s crisp, bitter finish beautifully complements a pretzel's warm, salty goodness. Try our favourite recipe for Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels for a delightful twist!

Dunkel: If you prefer your beer on the darker side, Dunkel is the rich, toasty lager you’ll want in your glass. With caramel and roasted malt flavours, it’s smooth, warming, and ideal for those cool autumn evenings by the fire.

Dunkel’s caramel and toasty notes pair beautifully with desserts, especially fall favourites. Try it with a classic Apple Pie for a rich, cozy combination that’ll have you reaching for seconds (or maybe even thirds). Feeling like pie might be a bit ambitious? Consider making our favorite Apple Tarte Tatin instead. It’s just as delicious and perfect for the season.

Kölsch: A lesser-known but delightful option, Kölsch is a light, slightly fruity ale that’s perfect if you want something easy-drinking. Originating from Cologne, this style is versatile and refreshing, making it an excellent alternative for those looking to break away from heavier beers.

The light, slightly fruity notes of a Kölsch pair perfectly with savoury meats. While roasted chicken is a classic Oktoberfest dish, we couldn’t resist matching it with our seasonal favourite—Maple Mustard Glazed Ham. The beer’s crisp, refreshing qualities cut through the rich, savoury flavours of the ham, offering a delightful balance and a refreshing break from the hearty fall flavours.

Stop by Angry Otter Liquor to grab these classic German beers and ensure your Oktoberfest is stocked with the best brews the season offers!

Oktoberfest Traditions and Hosting Your Own Celebration

Oktoberfest is about more than just great beer; it’s a vibrant celebration filled with traditions that unite people. Picture lively oompah bands playing festive tunes, folks donning traditional Bavarian clothing like lederhosen and dirndls, and delicious food wafting through the air. It’s all about enjoying the company of friends and family while savouring fall flavours.

Want to host your own Oktoberfest celebration? Start by stocking up on classic German beers from your local Angry Otter Liquor. Set the mood with Bavarian decorations, and don’t forget the food! Serve hearty dishes like bratwurst, pretzels, and apple pie to satisfy your guests. To elevate your gathering, try making house-made sauerkraut or a batch of Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels. With the right beer and food, you’ll create an unforgettable Oktoberfest experience at home!