Oktoberfest — that annual beer-and-food festival native to Munich, Germany, and now celebrated worldwide — officially kicked off on Sept. 16 and stretches to Oct. 3. But don’t fret: You haven’t missed the celebration just yet. Here are some ways to celebrate (and lift a glass) without having to dust off your passport first.
Topgolf Stein-Hoisting Competition, Sept. 29
Burn off some of those beer calories by holding a full liter beer stein steady — and win a prize in the process. Topgolf Alexandria is hosting what it bills as “the go-to sporting event of Oktoberfest” on Sept. 29. Participants will aim to hold their arm straight out from their body and keep the stein perfectly still; once their elbow bends or a drop of beer spills, they’re out of luck. Winners receive Topgolf gift cards. 6625 S. Van Dorn St. Free; registration 6-8 p.m.
Immanuel Oktoberfest Celebration, Oct. 1
Immanuel Lutheran Church and School host their “biggest event of the year” on Sunday, Oct. 1 — a family-friendly Oktoberfest celebration complete with German cuisine, live music, and, of course, a biergarten for the adults. From noon to 3 p.m., bring your dancing shoes and your appetite and get ready to celebrate the best Germany has to offer. 1801 Russell Road. $12 for adults ($15 after Sept. 25); $5 for youth; kids 4 and under free. Noon-3 p.m.
Port City Brewing Oktoberfest Outdoor Party, Oct. 7
Food trucks and games complement the amply flowing beer at Port City’s outdoor celebration. Take a taste of the brewery’s Oktoberfest beer (or any other offering – you can’t go wrong with a Colossal or the Optimal Wit, no matter the season) and pick up some grub from one of the food trucks on site. Tired of the usual beer suspects? Port City’s new Rauch Marzen – a German smoked lager – and its annual edition of Long Black Veil will also be ripe for the tasting. Free admission (beer and food incur a cost). Noon-9 p.m.; tour at 3 p.m.
Hope Nelson owns and operates the Kitchen Recessionista blog, located at www.kitchenrecessionista.com. Email her any time at hope@kitchenrecessionista.com.