By leah jones
The beginning of fall marks the start of many fun traditions like Germany’s famous (and beer lovers’ favorite) Oktoberfest. This year it runs from Sept. 21 to Oct. 6.
Oktoberfest originates from Munich, Bavaria. It began as a celebration of the (future) King’s marriage in 1810. Since, it has evolved into a modern celebration of German culture.
Families and friends gather in Munich (and all around the world) to celebrate this two-week long festival.
Oktoberfest is most famous for its authentic beer that's not available just anywhere. If you're not in Munich this year, you can still celebrate with these cocktails.
Try this light, citrus flavored beer. First, fill a glass with ice. Pour in 6 oz pilsner or wheat beer, 3 oz lemonade and 1 oz Aperol. Stir gently then garnish with a lemon slice.
Fill a glass with ice and mint leaves. Add 1 oz elderflower syrup and lime juice. Pour in 5 oz Prosecco and 1 oz soda water. Stir and garnish with a lime wedge and mint leaves.
Fill a mule mug with ice. Add 1.5 oz Jägermeister and 1 oz lime juice. Top with 4 oz ginger beer and stir. Garnish with a lime wedge and mint leaves if desired.
Fill a shaker with ice. Add 2 oz Kirschwasser (German cherry Brandy), 1 oz lemon juice and 1/2 oz simple syrup. Shake and strain into an ice-filled glass. Garnish with a cherry.
Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour in 6 oz German wheat beer, then top with 6 oz lemon-lime soda. Stir and garnish with a lemon wedge.
Try out this twist on a German staple. Fill a glass with ice. Pour in 4 oz Apfelwein (apple wine) and 1 oz lemon juice. Top with 1 oz club soda. Stir and garnish with apple slices.
In a large pitcher, mix 12 oz wheat beer, 3 oz apple cider, 1 oz brandy and 1/2 oz simple syrup. Add apple slices and orange wedges and serve over ice. It’s perfect for a party.
Fill a highball glass with ice. Add 1 oz peppermint schnapps and 1 oz vodka. Top with 4 oz club soda. Stir and garnish with fresh mint.
Prost (cheers) to Oktoberfest! Celebrate safely with these delicious cocktails.