Hosting Your Very Own Oktoberfest
The weather may be getting cooler, and activities may be moving inside, but that is no reason to stop gathering with friends and family. What better way to create a gathering than by hosting your very own Oktoberfest? Inspired by the famous German festival, Oktoberfest is all about great food, fun games, and enjoying time together. Whether you’re aiming for a casual backyard party or a more traditional Bavarian experience, here’s how to host an Oktoberfest that your guests will love!
1. Set the Scene: Bavarian Décor Start by creating the perfect festive atmosphere. Blue and white are the traditional colors of Oktoberfest, so grab some checkered tablecloths, string lights, and garlands in those hues. Add a few rustic touches with wooden signs or beer steins as centerpieces. You can even make it fun by encouraging guests to come in traditional Bavarian outfits like dirndls and lederhosen!
2. Serve Classic Oktoberfest Food: Food is one of the highlights of Oktoberfest, so fill your menu with classic German dishes. Think soft pretzels with mustard, bratwurst, sauerbraten (see recipe below), sauerkraut, and potato salad. For dessert, offer apple strudel or German gingerbread cookies. You could also create a DIY pretzel bar with different toppings for a fun interactive twist. For drinks, serve German beers, or offer non-alcoholic options like apple cider.
3. Plan Festive Activities: Oktoberfest is about more than just food—make sure to plan some fun games and activities! Host a stein-holding competition, play traditional German music for a lively sing-along, or organize a simple trivia game about the history of Oktoberfest. You can even set up lawn games like cornhole to keep guests entertained throughout the day.
4. Get the Kids Involved: Set up a cookie-decorating station where the kids can design their own Oktoberfest-themed treats or a craft table to make their own mini beer steins (non-alcoholic, of course!). These will keep the little ones engaged while the adults enjoy their time together.
5. Focus on Community and Connection: Oktoberfest is traditionally a time to celebrate community, so focus on fostering that connection at your event. Encourage guests to sit together at long, communal tables, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. Hosting an Oktoberfest at home is not just about recreating the look or the food—it’s about bringing people together in the spirit of celebration.
With these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to hosting a memorable Oktoberfest at home. Raise a glass, share a meal, and enjoy the company of loved ones as you celebrate the joys of the season! Prost!
"Man becomes an image of God not so much in the moment of solitude as in the moment of communion."
— Pope Saint John Paul II
Instant Pot Sauerbraten
Want to get festive for your Oktoberfest but don't have hours on ours to spend making sauerbraten? This pressure cooker version boasts great, authentic flavor with less than two hours of cooking time!
Recipe courtesy of Just Like Oma:
Quick German Recipes.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons oil, bacon fat, or butter
approx 2 pounds bottom round beef roast
2 onions, diced
2 carrots, diced
1 rib celery, diced
½ cup red wine vinegar
½ cup red wine
½ cup beef broth
4 bay leaves
salt and lots of freshly ground pepper
1 teaspoon granulate sugar (optional)
For the rest of the recipe click here.
Upcoming Seminar: "Good Family Living on a Limited Budget"
In a few weeks, Art of Living for Women in the Illinois is hosting a seminar called Good Family Living on a Limited Budget. Heide Kenny, who manages both a family and a business budget, will share her practical tips that busy families can implement to have greater financial confidence and freedom.
Join us on Thursday, October 17, 2024 at The Grove Cultural Center from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM for Good Family Living on a Limited Budget!
For more events like this one check out the Events page on our website.
