You might go to Munich for the final Oktoberfest expertise, however you don’t need to. Simply head to Chicago, a metropolis with German roots so deep chances are you’ll really feel such as you’re celebrating in Bavaria. Whether or not you are in search of a family-friendly, dog-friendly, or beer-forward form of Oktoberfest, you may discover it right here—full with imported German beer, lederhosen, and carnival rides.
If you happen to’re already considering forward to subsequent yr, take note: Chicago’s Oktoberfest season kicks off in September. You’ll be able to maintain the spirit alive-year-round at native German-inspired bars and eating places like Edelweiss, Kaiser Tiger, and The Berghoff. And in case you’re in search of inspiration this yr, listed here are some enjoyable occasions to mark in your calendar.
Enjoyable for Adults
At Oktoberfest Nation, you’ll be able to chow down on large pretzels, feast on bratwursts, and sip Hofbräu München beer, identical to I did at Oktoberfest in Munich in 2012. The band in Munich performed the Soiled Dancing soundtrack that evening, however in Chicago, count on conventional German people music carried out by Oompah bands flown in for town’s largest Oktoberfest celebration. Like in Munich, there are additionally carnival rides and crowd-pleasers like stein-carrying races. Don’t have a dirndl or lederhosen? Don’t fear—you should purchase them right here. Oktoberfest Nation is held at Fulton Market and runs by Oct. 19.
Household-friendly
Since 1996, St. Benedict Parish has hosted one among Chicago’s oldest and most healthful Oktoberfest celebrations. Each October, the parish courtyard fills with dwell music, carnival rides, video games, and German meals. This yr, St. Benedict is holding its Oktoberfest celebration Oct. 3-5.
Canine-friendly
Convey your canine to Barktoberfest, arguably essentially the most lovable Oktoberfest celebration within the metropolis. Held at Cody’s, a comfortable Lakeview pub, this dog-friendly fest includes a German buffet (sausages, sauerkraut, pretzels, brats), $6 beers, and $6 Jagermeister photographs. People can enter a stein-holding contest, whereas canines can compete in a pup cup-holding problem. You would possibly even meet your subsequent furry member of the family, as rescue canines shall be on web site. Barktoberfest is scheduled for Oct. 5, and a portion of drink gross sales advantages Chicago Canine Rescue.
For Native Beer
Head to Malt Row for a celebration that doubles as a celebration for one among Chicago’s favourite microbreweries: Begyle Brewing. Every fall, Begyle companions with Dovetail Brewery to host Oktoberfestiversary within the Ravenswood Hall, the center of Chicago’s microbrewery scene. Count on dwell music, meals vans, and particular beer tappings. This yr’s Oktoberfestiversary is scheduled for Oct. 11-12.