Mug Shots
Where to celebrate the richness of Oktoberfest this fall
by Bob Craig

Every year, toward the end of September, a large and ever-growing population throughout the Delaware Valley seems to acquire a certain fondness for all things Bavarian. It’s Oktoberfest, after all, a time to celebrate the fruits of German culture—beer, brats and lederhosen, to put a name to it—with calls of “Prost!” (That’s the German equivalent of “cheers.”) Following is a guide to upcoming events where one can enjoy, say, a mug of Oettinger, Beck’s or Warsteiner, among other things, plus check out a few more local happenings where adult beverages take center stage.

Iron Abbey’s Oktoberfest
September 25
Horsham
Iron Abbey’s Oktoberfest is hosted by Weihenstephan, the world’s oldest brewery. This event costs $60 and includes five beers and five courses of authentic German fare. Go to ironabbey.com for further details.

Sisters of the Holy Redeemer Oktoberfest
September 28 and 29
Provincialate House, Huntingdon Valley
This two-day festival features traditional German food, a beer garden, games, activities, crafts, hayrides, pony rides and much more. Proceeds from raised funds will benefit the Sisters of the Holy Redeemer Chapel Renovation Fund. Visit sistersholyredeemer.org for more information.

Downingtown FallFest
September 29
E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown
Presented by the Downingtown-Thorndale Regional Chamber of Commerce and Victory Brewing Co., FallFest includes a beer garden by Victory, delicious food and a slew of activities for the whole family to enjoy, including multiple vendors and special guests. For more information, visit downingtownfallfest.com.

Ambler Oktoberfest
October 5
Butler Ave., Ambler
Ambler’s 22nd annual Oktoberfest will host more than 100 vendors with an expected attendance in the thousands. Included in this daylong event are beer tasting, food vendors, restaurant samplings, craft vendors, kids’ rides and multiple musical acts. Go to amblermainstreet.org for further details.

Lansdale Oktoberfest
October 5
Whites Road Park, Lansdale
Landale’s Oktoberfest is busting at the seams with authentic German flair—and fare. Guests can expect live music, activities, dance troupe performances and freshly made German food and beverages. Go to facebook.com/lansdaleoktoberfest for further details.

Kennett Brewfest
October 5
Downtown Kennett Square
Come out to sample brews from more than 90 local, regional and craft breweries at this year’s Brewfest. Guests can anticipate live entertainment, food/merchandise vendors and sponsor tables. For more information, visit kennettbrewfest.com.

Oktoberfest Beer-Tasting Festival
October 12
Elmwood Park Zoo, Norristown
This beer-tasting festival allows attendees to sample craft brews from around the world. Beer connoisseurs have the opportunity to purchase a VIP ticket, allowing for early admission, all-you-can-eat food and exclusive access to the VIP area, plus select beers. Visit elmwoodparkzoo.org for more information.  

New Hope Oktoberfest
October 26
Jericho National Golf Club, New Hope
This craft beer festival pays special attention to pumpkin and other seasonal beers. Attending breweries include Triumph, River Horse, Vault, Neshaminy Creek, Naked, Manayunk and Round Guys, among a slew of others. Live entertainment and food will be included, as well. Go to newhopebeerfest.eventbrite.com for more information.