Fun ways to celebrate Oktoberfest without flying to Munich

As the traditional Munich Oktoberfest celebration is set to begin, Germany isn’t the only place to celebrate Oktoberfest. Here are easy to celebrate Oktoberfest closer to home.

While Munich is the heart of Oktoberfest celebrations, Germany isn’t the only place to celebrate Oktoberfest. From local restaurants and bars to a home celebration, these five ways to add a little German to your Oktoberfest celebration will have everyone saying Prost!

(Photo by Philipp Guelland/Getty Images)

Eat a Bavarian pretzel

The classic, giant pretzel is a staple for Oktoberfest. These fresh, Bavarian pretzels are different from the snack style pretzel. While not the crunchy pretzel from the bag, these soft, chewy pretzels are a great bite while enjoying an Oktoberfest style beer.

The Bavarian pretzel is served with mustard, cheese spread or even butter. Often served warm, the chewy bread helps keep the hunger away while drinking. But, the salt increases thirst.

A Bavarian pretzel and German beer is a staple of any Oktoberfest celebration.

Sam Adams National Stein Hoisting competition

Everyone say it together. Zicke, zacke, zicke, zacke, hoi, hoi, hoi. The German phrase is a common chant during Oktoberfest celebrations. Raise a stein and join the celebration.

Across the nation, Sam Adams will host stein hoisting competitions. Several bars and taverns will hold competitions throughout October. Then, regional finalists will compete for a spot in the national competition. The ultimate champions will appear in Sports Illustrated.

Will you be the ultimate stein hoisting champion?

Ways to celebrate Oktoberfest, photo provided by Page One Public Relations

Enjoy a German specialty dish

German food is hearty. From the classic bratwurst to a schnitzel, German food is a great way to celebrate Oktoberfest. The classic bratwurst is easy to cook at home. Remember to boil the bratwurst in beer prior to cooking it on the grill. The beer boil, with some onions, adds some flavor to the brat. Serve the bratwurst with a spicy mustard or a little bit of sauerkraut for a delicious bite.

The schnitzel is a generally meat that has been pounded thin, coated and fried. In Germany, schnitzel is usually pork, but sometimes veal is used. There are many styles of schnitzel. From egg dipped and battered or topped with a cream sauce, one version should satisfy a German food craving. Don’t forget the side of fries or potato wedges to complete the meal.

Visit Hofbrauhaus

When you can’t get to Munich, a taste of the authentic German beer house can be found at Hofbrauhaus. With a couple locations around the U.S., Hofbrauhaus will be celebrating Oktoberfest through the end of October. With Oktoberfestbier to food specials, Hofbrauhaus is an authentic taste of Germany.

Some Hofbrauhaus locations, like the Chicago location, will offer a live, authentic “oompah” bands, German singing groups and more. While guests don’t have to dress in lederhosen, the waitresses will be wearing their best Dirndls as they serve the overflowing beer steins. Who isn’t a little German during Oktoberfest?

Next: What is the difference between Oktoberfest beer and festbier?

These ideas are just a few ways to celebrate Oktoberfest. Will you be celebrating? Share your events or tag us on social media using #FoodSided.