You guessed it. From September 21 – October 6 it is Oktoberfest (“es ist Oktoberfest”)!

2013 marks the 180th Oktoberfest since it began 203 years ago in Munich, where the official festival is still held to this day.

Why the difference in years? The event was cancelled 24 times due to either war or cholera outbreaks. Yeah, those sound like pretty good reasons to us, too.

The first festival occurred on October 17, 1810 when the citizens of Munich were invited to celebrate the marriage of Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese. The horse races continued each year thereafter giving rise to the tradition that is Oktoberfest. Eventually the festival moved

Want to bring a piece of the celebration home? Try the only six Münchner Brauereien (Munich breweries) allowed to sell their brews in the tents at Oktoberfest. Hacker Pschorr, Hofbräu, Paulaner and Spaten are the original Munich beers sold at Oktoberfest. All six are characterized by their long tradition, ample brewing experience and the strict adherence to Bavarian purity regulations known as Reinhietsgebot.

If you’re looking to try a few domestic Oktoberfest beers, Victory Festbier might be one of the best. Another choice and a staple of fall here in the states, is Samuel Adams Octoberfest. This beer is a good starting point for someone looking to begin their journey into the plethora of fall offerings.

Locally, Maryland-based Heavy Seas Brewery puts out the cleverly named AARGHtoberfest!

If everyone’s Irish in March for St. Patrick’s Day, then it’s safe to call yourself German for three weeks every fall. So strap on your lederhosen, grab a stein and join the celebration from afar!