Tis the season to break out the lederhosen, throw some bratwurst on the grill and raise a stein in celebration. That’s right: it’s Oktoberfest time! Whether you join an official Oktoberfest party like the one in Nashville this weekend or decide to explore local breweries on your own, there’s plenty of fun, interesting people, great food and craft brews out there for you to enjoy. Please enjoy that last one responsibly. 

NASHVILLE OKTOBERFEST

It’s Oktoberfest Music City Style! An event for the whole family, Oktoberfest promises something for everyone. Delicious German foods, world-class beer, tons of events, Arts & Crafts vendors, live German music, the Dachshund Derby, and the 2nd largest 5K Race & Run in Tennessee — plus so much more! Prost Y’all! This weekend only: October 6-9 at Bi-Centennial Mall, 600 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville, TN. TheNashvilleOktoberfest.com

CURIO BREWING COMPANY

Fun fact: you can produce cold brew coffee in the same brewing systems as beer!  So why wouldn’t you? David and Alex at Curio Brewing Company have decided that pursuing Beer and Coffee is what we all need, and who are we to argue? Along with coffee and beer, depending on when you visit their taproom, you can also enjoy Team Triva (Wed. @ 7PM), Curio Jogging Assoc. (Thur. @ 6PM), Live Music (Fri. @ 7PM) or Curioga (Every Sat. @ 10AM). They’re at 216 Noah Drive, Franklin, TN. CurioBrewing.com

MILL CREEK BREWING COMPANY

Just a short drive south of Nashville, this hard-working brewery proudly offers a variety of beers & seltzers that are full of flavor, never overwhelming, and perfect for just about anything, whether it’s a weekend in the Smokies or a night out with friends. Their family friendly Nolensville Taproom offers a full food menu, including their award-winning Smashville Burger. 2008 B Johnson Industrial Blvd., Nolensville, TN 37135.  MillCreekBrewingCo.com

HUCKLEBERRY BREWING COMPANY

A family friendly space right in the heart of Cool Springs, Huckleberry Brewing Company offers craft beer “brewed on site by a master craftsman.” Whether you go to one of their events for a behind-the-scenes tour with the brewmaster or stop by to enjoy a delicious meal from their scratch kitchen, you’re sure to have a good time. 600A Frazier Dr., Franklin, TN, 37067.  Huckleberry Brewing Company

NASHVILLE BREWING COMPANY

Stop by the taproom to sample their award-winning beer or schedule a tour where Nashville Brewing Company owner, Scott Mertie, will lead you through the history of Nashville Breweries from the early 1800’s through the 1950’s. 2312 Clifton Avenue, Nashville, TN 37209 NashvilleBrewing.com

JACKALOPE BREWING COMPANY

A Nashville brewery with roots in Scotland, of all places. The Ranch—Jackalope Brewing Company’s taproom and brewery—specializes in brewing and canning four year-round beers, two seasonal beers, and a wide variety of limited release beers. The Ranch taproom is open Tuesday through Sunday, has original beers on tap, a dog-friendly patio, brewery tours, weekly events, and a private event space. In 2013, Jackalope became the first Nashville craft brewery to can its beer. You’ll find them at 429B Houston St., Nashville, TN 37203. Jackalope Brewing Company

ADDITIONAL OPTIONS

For even more craft brews made right here in Middle Tennessee, check out  Granite City Food & Brewery in Franklin, Czann’s Brewing Company in Nashville and “Nashville’s only authentic German bierhall” Bavarian Bierhaus.

Remember, no matter how or where you decide to celebrate, please drink responsibly.