14 Oktoberfest beers to toast one, two, three drink

While the tents in Munich might be silent again, these 14 Oktoberfest beers are ready to be opened for that rousing German celebration at home. Whether the day is filled with pretzels and brats or the evening ends with “Die Bierleichen,” the season needs to be toasted with one of these Oktoberfest beers.

Generally, an Oktoberfest beer is a Marzen style lager that is served around September. At the traditional Oktoberfest celebrations, a festbier, which is a lighter lager is also served. While the traditional celebration has specific limitations on the beers that can be served in the tents, many other breweries have created their own versions of this style of beer.

Traditionally, a Marzen style of beer is one that is brewed during March. While colors can be a warm amber, the alcoholic level isn’t overly high. Whether these beers are considered sessionable may be a personal preference.

From traditional Oktoberfest offerings to modern approaches on the seasonal beer, these 14 Oktoberfest beers are waiting to be enjoyed. Grab a stein and “Euch ist bekannt was wir bedürfen, wir wollen starke Getränke schlürfen!”

Oktoberfestbier Hofbrau

Whether there is a Hofbrauhaus close by or the six-pack is available at the store, Hofbrau is one of the original Munich breweries. The classic beer is always a good choice for any Oktoberfest celebration. With a slightly bitter taste and a 6.3% ABV, it might be best to enjoy a few pretzels with the beer.

Original Oktoberfest Amber Märzen Hacker-Pschorr

Another iconic Munich beers, the Hacker-Pschorr is authentically German. The rich amber color is balanced by the robust flavor. While it might be a seasonal beer, there is a longing for this taste all year.

Samuel Adams OctoberFest

One of the brand’s popular seasonal offerings, Samuel Adams Octoberfest is always a top choice. While caramel malt taste is apparent, the nuttiness makes this beer a fall favorite. With its low bitterness, it is easy to enjoy more than one.

Spaten Oktoberfest

Considered true to tradition, the Spaten Oktoberfest has well balanced roasted malt flavor. While there is an underlying sweetness, it lends itself to traditional German food and beverage pairings. Even though enjoying one at home might not be as spirited as the tents, this beer is always a rousing success.

Snyderbier from Captain Lawrence

Although not a traditional Oktoberfest beer, the Snyderbier brings together the food and beverage pairing of the season, beer and pretzels. This beer brewed with pretzels is one that needs to come back for another season.

Sierra Nevada Oktoberfest

While the beer might hail from California, the Sierra Nevada Oktoberfest beer’s flavors build off the classic German style. Slightly bready, the honey, light sweetness makes this beer enticing. Both balanced and smooth, the beer makes a great pairing with schnitzel or even an apple strudel.

Munsterfest 3 Floyds Brewing Company

While the Indiana Brewery might be known for that particular “lord,” its Munsterfest is a delightful autumn choice. The roasted malts are rich, but there is a slightly bitter note that draws drinkers back for another sip.

Founders Oktoberfest

Unlike some other Oktoberfest beers, the Founders Oktoberfest has a few grassy hop notes. When combined with the malt and slight sweetness, the beer can have a few drinkers doing a double take. While the golden color entices the eyes, the flavor will make people want to open another can.

Brooklyn Oktoberfest

A traditional take on the classic German style beer, the Brooklyn Oktoberfest has bready notes. With a touch of sweetness, it leans into those cozy, chilly nights by the fire.

Shiner Oktoberfest

While the legendary Texas beer might be known for its bock, the Shiner Oktoberfest is a great seasonal choice. Although there is a slight sweetness, this beer finishes with a stronger hoppy note. Since it is a Texas brew, it does make a good pairing with some smoked sausage.

Leinenkugel’s Oktoberfest

Although the North Woods might be a little chilly during the Oktoberfest celebrations, the warm spices in the Leinenkugel’s Oktoberfest can ward off that chill. It is the perfect sweater weather beer for enjoying the changing colors.

Breckenridge Brewery’s Oktoberfest

Although different from its hazy IPAs, the Breckenridge Brewery Oktoberfest beer does have a little crispy hoppy finish. Even with the toasty notes and malty characteristics, the brewery doesn’t lose sight of its heart.

Devils Backbone Brewing Company O’Fest

The Devils Backbone Brewing Company O’Fest has more of a golden color, like a festbier. This more contemporary take on the seasonal favorite has a smoothness that makes it a good starting point for drinkers looking to try this style of beer.

Firestone Walker Oktoberfest 2021 Oaktoberfest

The Firestone Walker Oaktoberfest has unique characteristics because of the French oak barrels used during the “lagering.” With a very smooth mouthfeel, this Oktoberfest beer might be the most unique of the list and deserves a moment to be savored.

What Oktoberfest beers are your favorite? Do you stash a few extra beers away to enjoy after the celebration?