How to Have an Oktoberfest Beer Tasting

Oktoberfest is a great celebration of food, family, and beer. Skip the flight to Munich and have your own Oktoberfest beer tasting.

: Don't drink unless you're of legal age. Drink responsibly, and never drink and drive.
Step 1: Find beers Find local or international beer at a liquor store or brewery. The beer you choose doesn't all have to be German -- mix it up to give your guests variety.
TIP: Have each guest bring a different beer and have everyone vote for their favorite.
Step 2: Set up table Set up a table with one bottle or stein of each beer and small tasting glasses to allow your friends to pour themselves a sample of each.
TIP: Provide palate-cleansing snacks, such as crackers, or bread.
Step 3: Study up on tasting technique Find an online guide that explains how to properly taste a beer by swirling, sniffing, and then tasting each brew, and print out a few guides for your guests. Or, invite an expert from a local brewery.
Step 4: Speak German Speak German! Say "prost" -- which means "cheers" -- when raising your glass, and announce your approval or disapproval of each beer with a "yah" or "nein."
Step 5: Continue with other beers Continue tasting beer until you find something you love; then pour yourself a pint and enjoy the atmosphere.
FACT: The first Oktoberfest was held on October 12, 1810, as a celebration of the wedding between Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxony.