Prost to Oktoberfest!

Oktoberfest is here and there are so many ways to celebrate in Middleton.

Wisconsin is not only home to the highest percentage of German-Americans, but also the first-ever Oktoberfest celebration in the United States. Because of this, and our state’s love for craft beer, Wisconsinites celebrate Oktoberfest in a big way — including here in Middleton. Whether you have German heritage or not, Sept. 21 is the kickoff of this popular German holiday and here are five ways you can celebrate until it ends Oct. 6.

Capital Brewery

Fall in Middleton isn’t complete without a stop at Capital Brewery & Bier Garten for a fall-flavored craft beer. You’re in for a treat when ordering Capital Brewery’s Oktoberfest — this brew has won 11 gold and eight silver medals since it was first brewed in 1989. Capital Brewery also offers Autumnal Fire, another sought-after and award-winning craft beer, for a fruitier take on fall. You can enjoy these beers and others on tap in the brewery’s Bier Garten on lovely fall days.

Clasen’s European Bakery

You may be remiss if you don’t stop at Clasen’s European Bakery this Oktoberfest season. Clasen’s offers an assortment of old-world style bread, rolls, cakes, pastries, wedding cakes and confections — handcrafted and based on an original 1959 German recipe. Whether looking for a delicious dessert or a handmade Bavarian soft pretzel, this bakery offers an authentic taste of German food that pairs well with just about any Oktoberfest activity. They even have a recipe for the perfect beer cheese dip to pair with it.

The Free House Pub

The Beer & Cider Sip & Stroll offers attendees the opportunity to explore the heart of Downtown Middleton, stopping at more than 20 locations, while enjoying a variety of craft beers and artisanal ciders, as well as snacks. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply enjoy a good beer and cider, there is something for everyone. This Oktoberfest-inspired event is organized by the Downtown Middleton Business Association and will take place 5 -8:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 10, with the first stop at One Community Bank just off of Aurora Street (across from Stone Horse Green). Tickets are on sale now by following this link. 

Craftsman Table and Tap

Throughout September and October, Craftsman Table & Tap will offer Oktoberfest specials, including seasonal beers from both craft and traditional breweries, as well as a jumbo pretzel board swerved with pub cheese dip, stone ground mustard, house sweet pub mustard, and sweet curry pickles. Every Thursday, they will tap a new craft Oktoberfest keg, which will be sold for $5 on that day.

Longtable Beer Cafe

Throughout the season, Longtable will have a variety of Oktoberfest brews on tap and in their cooler (a wall of almost 300 different beers). Rotating taps will always feature a German and domestic Oktoberfest option, including Working Draft Beer Company, 3 Sheeps Brewing Company, Hop Haus, Ayinger and more local favorites.

National Mustard Museum

If interested in hosting an Oktoberfest celebration, the National Mustard Museum is a great place to get authentic German fixings. And if celebrating Oktoberfest with a sizzling German bratwurst, head to the National Mustard Museum for the perfect topping. This year, the National Mustard Museum has also put together an Oktoberfest gift box filled with Kathi’s German Pretzel Mix, Lowensenf Honey Mustard, Alstertor Dusseldorf Mustard and Handelmaier Bavarian Mustard.

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Catch a variety of Oktoberfest beers all fall long at many restaurants across Middleton.