While Oktoberfest may have begun as a royal wedding celebration more than 200 years ago, in the years since, it has morphed into the largest secular celebration on Earth. Its growing popularity is fueled by pork, potato pancakes, the chicken dance, and copious amounts of beer. Here's where to celebrate the season’s festivities around town.
Schroeder's Oktoberfest: Starts Sept. 18
Schroeder's, the oldest and largest German restaurant on the West Coast, cranks the Bavarian up to 11 with the start of Oktoberfest this Friday afternoon. From 3:00 to 8:30pm the block will be bumpin' with beer, outdoor dining, music, and dancing. Then, the party moves indoors for the next five weekends, where you can enjoy beer by the bootfull and participate in traditional Hofbräu activities, including stein holding contests, polka, and chicken dances. Classic Oktoberfest food specialties will be featured including wiener schnitzel, bratwurst, and spätzle. // 240 Front St. Pre-order your drink and food tickets by calling (415) 421-4778, schroederssf.com
Oktoberfest by the Bay: Sept. 25- 27
The area’s largest Oktoberfest runs next Friday through Sunday. This traditional fest boasts nonstop music, Bavarian folk dancers, sausages and related pork products, and an ocean of crisp Spaten. Friday and Saturday night sessions are 21 and older. If you want a guaranteed place to sit, and easy access to food, the bar, and bathrooms, use the website and spring for VIP tickets. // Pier 48, oktoberfestbythebay.com
Oaktoberfest Oakland: Oct. 3
Although Oakland’s free street fest features German beer, food, and entertainment, its broad offerings reflect the city’s diversity. More than 46 craft breweries will also be on hand, alongside a homebrew class, local food vendors, and live music from Bavarian to funk and house. Sign up for the dance battle at 11:00am to secure your slot. Avoid the lines by using the website to purchase drink tickets or a package for unlimited beer tastings. // Fruitvale Ave and MacArthur Blvd, Oakland, oaktoberfest.org
21st Amendment’s Oktoberfest: Oct. 12-18
21A’s brewpub will have food and drink specials, including German-inspired menu items, all week and will be pouring a special Oktoberfest lager. Also, on Friday Oct. 16, there will be live music at the San Leandro location, and Saturday Oct. 17 at the brewpub. // Pub and Restaurant: 563 2nd Street San Francisco; Brewery: 2010 Williams Street, San Leandro, 21st-amendment.com
Biketoberfest Fairfax: Oct. 17
This free, family-friendly event in Fairfax combines bikes, food, music, and local craft beer. If you’re interested in sampling from among the 35 brews available, buy $20 tickets for unlimited tastings. While enjoying the beer, food, and live music, check out the bikes. Biketoberfest will feature more than 70 bike exhibitors, organized mountain and road rides, a parade, vintage bicycle show, cargo bike jubilee, valet bike parking, and kid-centered events. // Anselm Plaza: 765 Center Blvd, Fairfax
