Bavaria Meets Brevard!

Greetings, beer aficionados and party people! If you've ever scratched your head wondering why Oktoberfest is actually in September, don't worry, you're not alone! We have the answer that inquiring minds want to know.

First, it's time to dust off your dirndls and don your lederhosen as you plan to join us at Brevard's 3rd Annual Oktoberfest Celebration at the Brevard Lumberyardon Sept 30. Co-hosted by UpCountry Brewing, Noblebräu, and 185 King Street, this event will also include reps (and beers!) from Brevard Brewing, Ecusta Brewing and Oskar Blues in addition to UpCountry and Noblebräu. More info below after we finally answer this burning question:

Why's Oktoberfest in September Anyway?

Well, here's a tale for you: way back in the year 1810, Crown Prince Ludwig was head over heels for Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. Naturally, they threw a royal wedding bash of epic proportions and invited the entire city of Munich to join in the festivities. What started as a royal wedding celebration soon became an annual tradition, evolving into the Oktoberfest we know and love today.

But wait, there's a twist! The savvy Bavarians quickly realized that October weather in Germany can be a tad frosty. So, in the spirit of practicality (and not wanting their beers to turn into beer-cicles), they moved the shindig to September, where the climate is a bit more, shall we say, "prost"-friendly. They kept the name "Oktoberfest" even though they started celebrating a bit earlier! FYI, the modern Oktoberfest in Munich attracts six million people each year, runs for 16 days, and always ends on the first Sunday in October. 

Bavaria Meets Brevard: Brevard's 3rd Annual Oktoberfest Celebration!

Now that you know why Oktoberfest plays calendar tricks, let's dive into why you absolutely, positively, without a doubt, must join Brevard's Oktoberfest celebration on September 30th:

1. Beers Galore: This year's event will have two biergartens. 185 King Street will feature a biergarten with German beers from some of the world's oldest breweries and Upcountry Brewing will feature a biergarten with German-style beers from each of the Transylvania County breweries: Brevard Brewing, Ecusta, Noblebräu, Oskar Blues and Upcountry. 
2. Bavarian Bites: 185 King Street will be serving house made beer-brats, pretzels and beer cheese along with some of their classic menu items while both Smash NC and Tin Roof Pizza will be serving up fresh grub in the UpCountry Courtyard.
3. Oompah-tastic Tunes: Live music to keep your feet tapping, your stein-raising arm strong, and your spirits soaring high.
   12:00-2:30pm Music by The Harrows at 185 King Street
   4:00-6:00pm Music at 185 King Street John Trufant, Owen Grooms and JT Linville.
4. Games and Competitions: Ready for some epic showdowns? Win, and you'll be the proud owner of bragging rights and perhaps a delightful surprise! Games Begin in the UpCountry Courtyard at 2:30pm.
   2:30 Steinheist
   3:00 Keg Toss
   3:30 Barrel Roll
   4:00 Best Dressed, awards and prizes
5. Family Fun: This isn't just for the grown-ups; we've got family-friendly activities for the little ones. There will be sack races, and White Wolf Stone Creations will have face painting and kids can create an elf costume. They will also have Halloween themed crafts for sale so bring the whole crew!

So, there you have it. The mystery of September's Oktoberfest has been unveiled, and the invitation to our ultimate Oktoberfest celebration is in your hands. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or just up for a fantastic time, join UpCountry Brewing on September 30th for Brevard's 3rd Annual Oktoberfest Celebration. See you here! 🍻🥨