Oktoberfest, the world-famous beer festival held annually in Munich, Germany, draws millions of visitors who come to celebrate Bavarian culture, food, and, most importantly, beer.

Oktoberfest dates back to 1810 when Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese. The citizens of Munich were invited to join the festivities, which included horse races and beer. Over time, the event evolved into a 16-day festival that begins in late September and ends on the first Sunday in October. It's a celebration of Bavarian culture, marked by traditional music, hearty food, and, of course, an extensive variety of beer.

While nothing beats the excitement of the real deal, bringing the spirit of Oktoberfest home is all about creating a warm, festive atmosphere, filled with great beer and traditional food pairings.

 

Choosing the Right Beers for Oktoberfest

The beer is the star of Oktoberfest, and selecting the right brews is key to an authentic experience. Oktoberfest beers are typically Märzen lagers—smooth, amber-colored beers with a malty sweetness and a crisp finish. However, you can expand your beer selection to reflect different tastes, just as the festival itself has grown to include other beer styles.
Here are a few beer types to consider for your Oktoberfest celebration at home:

• Märzen (Oktoberfest Lager): A must-have for any Oktoberfest celebration. This rich, amber lager is malty with a slight hop bitterness, making it an easy-drinking choice for a long afternoon of celebration.
• Weissbier (Wheat Beer): A traditional Bavarian beer known for its hazy appearance and fruity, spicy notes. It’s perfect for those who prefer a lighter, more refreshing brew.
• Pilsner: A crisp and light golden beer with a clean, bitter finish. It’s a good option to balance out heavier dishes with its refreshing nature.
• Dunkel: This dark lager has toasty, chocolatey notes, making it an ideal pairing for savory or sweet dishes.

Serving Oktoberfest Beers

Presentation matters just as much as the food and drink itself. Elevating your Oktoberfest celebration with the right glassware adds an element of elegance and sophistication to your at-home experience.

• Märzen in Bormioli Rocco Luna Glasses: These tall, slightly rounded glasses are ideal for showcasing the rich amber color of a Märzen. Their shape helps enhance the malt-forward aroma, offering a fuller flavor experience.

Luna 15.25 oz. Drinking Glass

• Weissbier in Bormioli Rocco Executive Beer Glasses: Weissbier’s hazy, unfiltered appearance deserves to be highlighted in a glass that enhances its fruity and spicy notes. The Executive glass, with its flared shape, allows for an ample head of foam, a signature feature of wheat beers.

Executive 18 oz. Beer Glass

• Pilsner in Bormioli Rocco Sestriere Glasses: This glass is tall and slender, designed to keep the beer’s carbonation intact while offering a crisp, refreshing sip. It also helps to showcase the clear, golden color of the beer.

Sestriere 19.5 oz. Beer Glass

• Dunkel in Bormioli Rocco Nonix Glasses: These beer glasses are perfect for serving Dunkel beer, thanks to their classic and traditional design. Their slightly protruding edges make them stackable, ideal for easy storage at home or in a professional setting.

 

Beer Pairings for Your At-Home Oktoberfest

Pairing the right beer with your food is essential for creating a well-rounded Oktoberfest experience. Luckily, traditional German dishes are hearty and full of flavor, making them the perfect companion to the beers you’ve chosen.

• Pretzels and Märzen: Nothing says Oktoberfest like warm, soft pretzels. Their salty, chewy texture complements the malty sweetness of a Märzen, creating a perfect balance.
• Bratwurst and Weissbier: Grilled sausages, especially bratwurst, are a staple at Oktoberfest. The light, fruity character of a Weissbier pairs well with the savory, spiced flavors of the bratwurst.
• Schnitzel and Pilsner: The crisp, breaded coating of schnitzel pairs beautifully with the sharpness of a pilsner. The beer cuts through the richness of the dish, making for a satisfying bite.
• Roast Pork and Dunkel: A dark lager like Dunkel is a great match for roast pork or pork knuckles, with its roasted, caramel flavors complementing the savory meat.

By carefully choosing your beer, pairing it with delicious traditional foods, and serving it in beautifully designed Bormioli Rocco glassware, you can create an unforgettable Oktoberfest celebration right in your own home. Prost!