Your guide to the best activities and beers New York’s Oktoberfest has to offer.
Photo: Courtesy of Unsplash
September 24, 2018 – Gabrielle Christensen
The weather is changing and the leaves are falling; Autumn is finally here. And with it brings the annual Oktoberfest. Originally a German tradition, Oktoberfest is fall festival honoring German favorites like Hofbrau beer, brats, pretzels, and Weihenstephan. Now we might not be Munich, but NYC still throws one heck of a party. Between the food, the festivities, and most importantly the beer, Oktoberfest is sure to hold a special place in any fall-lover’s heart. So get your sweaters ready and your pint glasses washed because these are the top places to be during NYC’s Oktoberfest 2018.
Five Boroughs Brewing Co. – The Five Boroughs Festbier
215 47th St, Brooklyn, NY 11220
Photo: Courtesy of Five Boroughs Brewing Company
As bars go, Five Boroughs is a strong contender for New York’s best. With a classy rustic feel, plenty of space, and board games galore, the bar itself is a fun place to be on a night out. But imagine this beautiful space combined with Oktoberfest activities. You get something amazing. Their current Oktoberfest brew is their Festbier – a combination of German pilsner, Munich malts, and Hallertau. It’s the perfect light Oktoberfest beer.
Bierhaus NYC – The Shotski
712 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10017
Photo: Courtesy of Bierhaus NYC
Located in Midtown East, this German bar knows how to handle Oktoberfest. Serving traditional German food and a variety of Hofbrau beers from Munich – all of which is to die for. However, the real highlight of Bierhaus NYC is its Shotskis. This is literally a round of shots served on a giant wooden ski. Be ready to blush because when they ring their cowbell you and your friends have to take the shots while the bar cheers you on – perfect for celebrating Oktoberfest.
Munich on the East river – The Oktoberfest Tent
24-20 FDR Drive Service Road East, New York, NY, 10010
Photo: Courtesy of Zum Schneider
If your looking for authenticity in an Oktoberfest, look no further. Munich of the East river is celebrating its fifth year and is the place to be. With a traditional German Oktoberfest tent decorated to the nines and original tapped beers served in Masskrugens, this tent is as close to the real deal as you’re going to get. Based on the Munchen Oktoberfest experience, this tent follows all of the classic celebrations of Munich including live Oompah music, authentic German food, and German fluent staff dressed in Dirndl and Lederhosen.
Lower East Side Oktoberfest – The Pub Crawl
137 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002
Photo: Courtesy of Unsplash
Wanting something a little more intense this Oktoberfest? Well strap in and get your drink on at the annual NYC Oktoberfest Pub Crawl. Starting at 12 PM you have exactly 10 hours to drink until your heart’s content with a free beer at every bar visited, giving you an opportunity to try all different kinds of German beer. There’s no messing around at this Oktoberfest celebration, it’s all about endurance. Are you up for the challenge?
OktoberFest NYC – The Family Friendly Oktoberfest
78 South Street, New York, NY
Photo: Courtesy of OktoberFest NYC
Located at Watermark (Pier 15) this waterside party is sure to be a blast for the whole family. Equipped with traditional Munich decorations, giant pretzels, and cute carnival games, the kiddos will have the time of their lives while you’re sipping on a stein of your choice. Be sure to check out the spectacular view of the Brooklyn and Williamsburg bridges while you’re there! This particular Oktoberfest will be held on September 21st – 23rd, September 27th – 30th, October 4th – 7th, October 11th – 14th from 12 PM to 12 AM.
