Free Beer Tastings! Happy Oktoberfest!

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Thursday, September 22nd, 2011

It’s still September, but in Germany it’s Oktoberfest! Most people are under the false impression that Oktoberfest lasts throughout the entire month of October, but Oktoberfest originally took place in its origin of Munich during the 16 days before and including the first Sunday in October. Nowadays, it’s celebrated during the 16 days before and including the first Sunday in October, plus a day or two extra (16-18 total) in order to last through German Unity Day on October 3. That means Oktoberfest officially started on September 17 (if you weren’t already aware), so it’s time to celebrate!

 

 

Here are two opportunities to celebrate this end of week:

Complimentary Oktoberfest Beer Tastings (and 10% off all poured beers)

Market Cellars (11873 Market St., Reston; 703-437-9463)
*Today* Thursday, September 22
4:30-7:30 p.m.

Maison du Vin (756 Walker Road, Suite D, Great Falls; 703-759-9880)
*Tomorrow* Friday, September 23
4:30-7:30 p.m.

Both tastings will be serving seasonal Marzen lagers (lager is German for storage), which have been brewed in the spring and are “lagered” over the summer so they’re ready to drink, just in time for the start of fall and Oktoberfest! “These crisp, rustic beers,” the Maison du Vin company notes, “were originally brewed for Germany’s 16 day celebration of Prince Ludwig’s marriage to Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen on October 12, 1810 in Munich, Germany.”

Beers being poured at the tastings include:

-Ayinger Oktober Fest-Marzen (Germany)
-Paulaner Oktoberfest (Germany)
-Hofbrau Oktoberfest (Germany)
-Brooklyn Oktoberfest (N.Y.)
-St. George Oktoberfest (Va.) (Market Cellars only)
-Stoudts Oktoberfest (Pa.) (Maison du Vin only)

Enjoy!

-Julia Harbo

Tags: beer, complimentary, drinks, fall, free, Germany, Gut Check, julia harbo, lager, Northern Virginia, Northern Virginia Magazine, NoVA, Oktoberfest