It’s that time of year when Seattle gets its German on. Whether you’re here for the beer, the bratwurst, or just an excuse to wear lederhosen, there’s an Oktoberfest event that’s calling your name. And yes, it’s “Oktoberfest” with a “K” — because we’re not messing around. Munich has been doing this since 1810, and Seattle’s ready to follow suit.

Fremont Oktoberfest (Sept. 20-22) is the headliner. Three days of stein-holding competitions, craft brews, and more pretzels than you can shake a sausage at. Expect more than 100 beers and ciders from more than 30 breweries. Oh, and if that’s not enough, on Sunday there’s the Texas Chainsaw Pumpkin Carving contest and Dogtoberfest.

Pumpkin carving, Fremont Oktoberfest style.

Photo courtesy of Fremont Oktoberfest

Capitol Hill’s Rhein Haus (Sept. 21-Oct. 1) goes all-out for Oktoberfest. The celebration kicks off with the Oompa Machine and stein-holding competitions. On Sept. 28, Oktoberfeast has teams race to finish a feast, with the winning team’s charity of choice receiving a reward. That same evening, Manuela Horn, known as the Queen of Oktoberfest, will lead the fun with performances, games, and dancing. The festival wraps up on Oct. 1 with Chef Pete’s Beer Dinner, offering a German-inspired menu paired with beer.

Raise a stein at Rhein Haus for Oktoberfest — German eats, stein-holding, and a week of fun in Capitol Hill.

Photos courtesy of Rhein Haus

For something a bit more low-key, head to Ounces Taproom & Beer Garden Oktoberfest (Oct. 4-6) in West Seattle for German beers, bratwurst, live tunes, costume contests, and stein-holding competitions.

Edmonds Rotary Oktoberfest (Sept. 13-14) is one for the family, with live music, a beer garden, activities for the kids, and the ever-popular Pet Parade.

At McMenamins Anderson School Oktoberfest in Bothell (Sept. 28), expect live music and seasonal beer tastings. It’s laid-back and family-friendly — the kids can even hang at the pool or the movie theater while you sneak off for a pint. One standout? Their Oktoberfest Lager, brewed just once a year for this celebration.

Family-Friendly Oktoberfest at Stoup in Kenmore  (Sept. 22) features bratwurst sandwich specials, live Bavarian music, stein-holding competitions, and cornhole. Grab a limited-edition Oktoberfest stein and enjoy $16 fills.

Celebrate Oktoberfest with beers, brats, and the family in Kenmore at Stoup Brewing.

Photo courtesy of Stoup

For bratwurst fanatics, The Great Wallingford Bratwurst Festival (Sept. 20-21) is where you’ll want to be. Beer, sausage, and a good time — check their Facebook page for updates.

And if you’re craving a truly Bavarian experience, head to Leavenworth’s legendary Oktoberfest (Oct.4-5, 11-12, and 18-19), where oompah bands and parades meet endless beer. Don’t miss Rhein Haus Leavenworth for Haus-made cozy, traditional German fare.

The last time I went to Oktoberfest, I managed to spill my beer all over my husband just minutes after getting it — and no, I wasn’t drunk. Just an overcrowded bar packed with singing, happy people, and I got knocked around a bit. 

Prost to good times!