OK, maybe not a physical trip to a genuine Hofbrauhaus, but the memories of beer in Germany will have to start the holiday. I won’t be joining the millions of participants in the 16-day Oktoberfest celebration (September 19-October 4) in Munich, but there are no shortage of opportunities stateside to indulge in the true amber colored Fall beer. Even though German beer sales are down, and many Belgian beers are part of big beverage conglomerates, there are numerous microbreweries and craft beers happily (maybe I should say hoppily) ready to celebrate.
It’s as if everything is in response to our new beer budget society as high-end wine sales continue to decline. You’ll see plenty of beers in the US aisles proudly touting the name “marzen,” as if they are the official Oktoberfest selections.
If you’ve been waiting to party and looking for a September celebration, then Oktoberfest should be an easy solution: start this month and celebrate into the next. Grab your lederhosen– try the newest style: one that handles beer spills , (ledershosen-style swimming shorts), hold on to your stein, and be ready for some beer hall singing.
At least celebrate at a brewery 
or grab a six-pak and enjoy the season.
