Oktoberfest With a Twist

Dig out your lederhosen and raise a stein. With Oktoberfest celebrations in full swing in cities across the country (and world), we thought we’d offer a sampling of some of this year’s festivities that have yet to unfold. And while beers, brats and oompah music typify the 16-day celebration, these particular festivals are also raising money for charity, making them especially worth a toast—prost!

Philly Oktoberfest, Philadelphia
Saturday, September 27
Philly’s first large-scale Oktoberfest features more than 50 American and German craft beers, including five of the authentic Munich Oktoberfest brews on draft. Their “Mugs for Jugs” showcase from 1-5 pm supports breast cancer research.

North by Northwest Restaurant and Brewery, Austin
October 4-5
Support the Breast Cancer Resource Centers of Texas, the Central Texas Dachshund Rescue and Therapy Pet Pals of Central Texas while enjoying festivities that include a bratwurst-eating contest and a “weiner dog” costume contest. Also be sure to try the special Oktoberfest brew created by brewmaster Don Thompson and head brewer Ty Phelps.

Rustico, Washington, D.C.
Saturday, October 18
Join one of D.C.’s best restaurants (see our “100 Best Places to Drink Beer in America” feature in the Sept/Oct issue, on newsstands now) as they fight to end hunger with spätzel, goulash and suds. Proceeds benefit Capital Area Food Bank’s anti-hunger efforts.

Heathman Restaurant, Portland, Oregon
Friday, October 24
James Beard Award-winning chef Philippe Boulot raises the roof with Full Sail Brewing at this Oktoberfest benefit for Habitat for Humanity Portland/Metro East. Enjoy a night of traditional German food and Oregon microbrews, while helping raise funds for Habitat for Humanity.