While the Germans actually celebrate Oktoberfest in September, more often than not fall celebrations here tend to take shape in the early part of the festival’s namesake month. We’re not about to split hairs about authenticity, though, when the bottom line is that the city’s bars, restaurants, and event venues are playing host to numerous opportunities to swill suds in the name of Oktoberfest. Surely not coincidentally, running simultaneous with many of the city’s Oktoberfest events is Baltimore Beer Week as well. Grab your lederhosen (or not…) and tap into the seasonal shenanigans at any of these beer-based events around Charm City in early October. Prost!

 

Friday, October 7–Sunday, October 16

In its 8th year, Baltimore Beer Week is a widespread celebration with hundreds of events in local bars, restaurants, breweries, and special venues. Spanning from October 7 through October 16, the week celebrates all things beer in Baltimore with tap takeovers, beer pairing dinners, tastings, competitions, food and drink specials, fundraisers, tours, homebrew equipment sales, and educational opportunities. Peruse all of the upcoming events (conveniently categorized by date) here. (City-wide)

 

Friday, October 7, 5–8 PM

Station North Tool Library
Featuring beers from Union Craft Brewing, SNTL’s monthly first friday happy hour in October is dedicated to both the celebration of Oktoberfest as well as fundraising, acting as their annual fundraiser for 2016. There will be plenty of raffle prizes, a carnivore and vegetarian friendly weinie roast, and a polka dance party. Lederhosen are specifically encouraged. (417 E Oliver St.)

 

Saturday, October 8, 12–6 PM

This annual event features over 150 international, domestic, and local Maryland beers, in addition to domestic wines and schnapps alongside live music and competitions like Miss Oktoberfest and Beer Stein Holding. Cash and prize giveaways will be on tap all day as well as games like cornhole and tricycle riding. Tickets run $39–$59 dollars and include unlimited samples (with a $29 ticket available for admission for designated drivers). (1101 Russell St.)

 

Owltoberfest 

Sunday, October 9, 6–9 PM

This Mt. Vernon mainstay is celebrating with food specials and a cider bar as well as raffles and giveaways and a stein hoisting contest. (1 E Chase St.; 410-347-0888)

 

Saturday, October 15, 2–9 PM

The 3rd annual WOBtoberfest also coincides perfectly with the McHenry Row location’s third year anniversary. Taking advantage of one of Baltimore’s most comfortable seasons to imbibe al fresco, World of Beer will have beer tents set up for outside celebrating along with live music, cornhole, jenga and multiple competitions featuring boots and steins. (1724 Whetstone Way; 410-752-2337)

 

Saturday, October 15, 6–9 PM

Strong City Baltimore and the 29th Street Community Center will benefit from this year’s 3rd Annual Oktoberfest at Peabody Heights Brewery. Included with ticket prices ($45 in advance or $50 at the door) are four beer tastings and German cuisine from a buffet featuring sausages, salads, desserts and a variety of vegetarian options. Brewery tours will be available and silent auction will take place as well. All proceeds benefit youth, adults and families by increasing access to high-quality, low-cost, daily programming offered by the 29th Street Community Center. Tickets can be purchased here. (401 E 30th St.; 410-467-7837)

 

Saturday, October 22, 12–4 PM

This yearly fundraiser to support the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore features unlimited sampling of more than 30 seasonal brews to the backdrop of live music and with a variety of German-inspired food from local vendors. Ticket-holders also have all day admission to the zoo. Purchase tickets here. (1876 Mansion House Dr.,Druid Hill Park)