While the original Oktoberfest celebration in Germany has been canceled, the party is still on in NoVA. If you’re looking to spend your weekends filling up on lager, pretzels, and brats, these are the parties to head to in September.
Oktoberfest at Dirt Farm
September 18 & 19, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
While the dress code doesn’t require lederhosen and dirndls, they’ll definitely fit the part at Dirt Farm Brewing. Make sure to try the Dunkleweizen, their German-style ale with notes of banana and clove. Plus, bring the kids along for a quick trip to the Bluemont Fair. Dirt Farm Brewing: 18701 Foggy Bottom Rd., Bluemont; free admission
RhinO’fest 2021
September 18 & 19, noon-7 p.m.
This 10th annual celebration is definitely something you won’t want to miss out on. With access to both single-day and two-day passes, festival goers will be able to enjoy live music, outdoor games, and German-style food and lager. Lost Rhino Brewing Company: 21730 Red Rum Dr., Ste. 142, Ashburn; $45-$65
Beltway OktoberFest! Release Party
September 18, noon-9 p.m.
To kick off the Oktoberfest party, Beltway Brewing Company is releasing its new Marzen-style lager, Fest. As you drink the day away, make sure to pair your brew with the German-themed food boxes available for purchase. Beltway Brewing Company: 22620 Davis Dr., Ste. 110, Sterling; free
Old Ox Oktoberfest
September 18, 25, and October 2, noon-9 p.m.
The Old Ox beer garden is the place to be for some German fun. With 10 traditional beers on tap, and a special menu of Bavarian pretzels, bratwurst, and pork schnitzel, you’ll definitely feel like you’re back in Deutschland. As you enjoy the party, try your hand at some of the traditional competitions, including the stein holding and best dressed contests. Old Ox Brewery: 14 S. Madison St., Middleburg; free admission
Oktoberfest Weekend at Flying Ace Farm
September 24-26, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
Oktoberfest is a three-day affair at Flying Ace. Every day, a different local band will liven up the crowd. Stop by with an empty stomach on Sunday for a traditional German sausage buffet. All weekend, there will be discounts for those wearing lederhosen, 25 percent off to-go canned beers, and dog treats available for purchase. Flying Ace Brewery: 40950 Flying Ace Ln., Lovettsville; free admission, $12.95-$28 for the Oktoberfest Buffet
Crooked Run’s 2nd Annual Oktoberfest
September 25, noon-8 p.m.
After a successful first year, Crooked Run Brewing is expanding its Oktoberfest offerings. This year, beer lovers will see a bigger beer garden, German food specials, contests, and new beer releases and guest taps from 11 breweries. Crooked Run Brewing: 22455 Davis Dr., Ste. 120, Sterling; free admission
Sweetwater Tavern Octoberfest!
September 25, 1-5 p.m.
The whole family can enjoy the traditional German celebration at Sweetwater Tavern. Fill your afternoon with fun with family and friends listening to live music and enjoying great food. Those 21 and older will receive two beer tickets and endless food options, including bratwurst, soft pretzels, pulled pork, and much more. Sweetwater Tavern: 14250 Sweetwater Ln., Centreville; $15-$30
Feature image, © tiagozr/stock.adobe.com
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