Nobody rocks a beer holiday quite like the Germans. However, did you know there is more to Oktoberfest than getting wickedly smashed as a barmaid in costume slips you her number? The traditional German celebration of beer and countrymen dates back to October 12, 1810, when Crown Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. The party people of Munich, Germany celebrated the wedding festivities for days and, the following year, the royal family decided to a host a similar bash, only this time with more beer! The tradition kept, and the beer tents grew and grew. But, don’t worry, this isn’t a history lesson.
Instead, we at Euphoria Psychedelic Gift Shop, wanted to give you a breakdown of the best spots on Long Island to celebrate the anniversary of the old prince and his bride (aka Oktoberfest, in case we’ve lost you). Therefore, in order to take advantage of the best beer festivals and fresh brewed tastes the fall season has to offer, we've compiled this list of the top 5 Oktoberfest events on Long Island. Turns out you don’t have to go to NYC to get “betrunken.”
Long Island Events
1. Plattduestsche Park – Franklin Square
Sunday, September 18
Plattduetsche, in Franklin Square, is one of the most German bar and restaurants you’ll find on Long Island. Celebrate the authenticity of German beer, food, and culture withthe annual Ompahfest. This event will be held from 11 AM - 10 PM and will include music by authentic German bands! There will also be games, raffles, and vendors.
*In case you miss Ompahfest, Plattduestsche is still the best place for German beer and cuisine on Long Island. You can enjoy the authentic atmosphere all year round. Plus, the bar is known to host regular events and specials during the Oktoberfest season.
2. Oktoberfest at the Oak Chalet – Bellmore
September 22 - October 27
Our Bellmore neighbors host a fantastic Oktoberfest with evenings full of mouthwatering German specialties and live accordion music. Join the pub from 6 – 9 PM on Thursdays for a real treat!
3. Pumpkin Fields Craft Beer and Music Festival – Bay Shore
Saturday, September 24
This year, at the Brightwaters Farm in Bay Shore, you’ll find Long Island’s largest pumpkin beer and cider festival. Featuring over 50 breweries of every style of beer you can imagine, this is no ordinary pumpkin patch event. There will be FREE beer sampling from 1 – 4 PM and two stages for live music. Click here for ticket info and pricing.
4. Nautical Mile Brew Fest – Freeport
Saturday, October 1
Tropix Waterfront Property hosts top notch local beer and cider for this don’t-miss Long Island Craft Beer Festival. Enjoy unlimited craft beer samples for the entire evening paired with live entertainment, food, and games. The festival is from 1 - 5 PM. Purchase tickets in advance here.
5. Punktöberfest 2016 – Bay Shore
Saturday, October 22
Punktöberfest is an outdoor event at the Great South Bay Brewery in Bay Shore. “Combining Beers, Brats, and Punk Rock,” this festival celebrates the best of both worlds: fall beers and live punk rock music! Local restaurant vendors and food trucks will be serving up Oktoberfest-style eats. Purchase your tickets online here, they are limited!
More German Bar and Restaurants to Discover on Long Island
Oktoberfest doesn’t have to come just once a year if you don’t want it to. If you haven’t already, check out these additional bar and restaurants serving up Oktoberfest specials throughout September and October. Get your Schnitzel on!
Prost Grill & Garten - Garden City
Black Forest Brew Haus - Farmingdale
Bierhaus - Patchogue
Pumpernickel’s - Northport
Remember to also stop by our Long Island Vape and Gift Shop, located in at 213 Bedford Avenue in Bellmore. We have the accessories to help you mellow out after all that beer and food!
Happy Drinking!!
