oktoberfest

Two women share a laugh as they drink their own beers during Oktoberfest. Organizers in Munich worried that a new ban on smoking would result in the intolerable smell of stale beer, but German newspaper Spiegel reports that the event has started without a stench — yet.

Three women posed for a picture at the Hofbraeuhaus beer tent today in Munich, Germany to celebrate Oktoberfest, the world's largest fair. Each year, about six million people show up to the 16-day beer festival that happens in late September and early October. Give them beer (and breasts) and they will come! Cheers!

Let the colors of Germany's flag inspire the look at your Oktoberfest. Set the table with a red cloth and black plates. Serve the sausages and potato salad from big black bowls. Clear beer mugs are a must! Yellow flowers, red balloons, and a banner are festive and fun. Surprise guests with a Oktoberfest mint tin party favor.

No specialty cocktail is needed at an Okotberfest celebration, the German festival is all about one thing — beer. Instead invite friends to partake in a beer tasting! There are several different ways to host a beer tasting. You can get the same kinds of beers, say German pilsners, all made by different breweries. You could select one brewery, purchase all the varieties of beer they make, and serve those. Or you can just buy a bunch of beers from various styles and regions. Head to Bevmo, Trader Joe's, or other local shop that sells a wide assortment of beers and purchase six packs or larger bottles for the tasting. To get more beer-tasting tips read more

The Black Forest is a wooded region in Southwestern Germany. It's from this area that Black Forest ham and Black Forest cake originated. Traditionally the confection consists of layers of chocolate cake, kirsch, and sour cherries, but this recipe uses those ingredients to make crumb bars.

At an event like Oktoberfest, where lots of beer may be consumed, it's nice not to worry about cutting and plating a cake. These super chocolatey portable bars can be set out at the start of the party, and guests can enjoy them at their leisure without utensils. For the make-in-advance recipe, please keep reading.

Contrary to popular belief, Oktoberfest, the annual German beer festival, doesn't begin in October, it actually starts this weekend! Just because I can't travel to this year's event doesn't mean I shouldn't celebrate in the comforts of my own home. You can, too, by following my plan for the ultimate Oktoberfest.

Start by serving a delectable German-inspired meal. Sauteed bratwurst are succulent when paired with braised sauerkraut, soft onions, and sweet apples. A classic vinegar-based potato salad is a filling and savory side dish. To get these recipes please keep reading.