Best Places To Celebrate Oktoberfest 2012 In South Florida

Oktoberfest runs from September 22^nd through October 7^th. This tradition has evolved into one of the largest festivals in world with rivers of music, food and wonderful beer. Check out these great events for an authentic Oktoberfest experience whether you are born in Germany, a descendant or simply responsibly enjoying Bavarian beers.

Annual Coral Gables Oktoberfest

Bierhaus Plaza
60 Merrick Way
Coral Gables, FL 33134
(305) 774-1883
www.oktoberfestmiami.com

Dates: October 5-14, 2012

This festival is a 10-day celebration honoring authentic traditions at the Bierhaus Plaza. Bratwurst-eating contests and Austrian and German bands playing live are what is considered the closest to the main gargantuan Munich festivities. Some of the traditional German dishes will be sold and devoured all day long like sausages, sauerkraut, soft pretzels, hot potato salads, pork shanks and Black Forest chocolate cake. Don your lederhosen and come out for the event.

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Hofbräu Beer Hall

943 Lincoln Road
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 538-8066
www.hofbraumiami.com

Wheat beer, Bavarian food and people watching is as German as it gets in Miami Beach. Waiters dressed in authentic costumes (with a few tropical edits) give the place a German signature, even if you're not drinking the four-centuries-old beer. The first Hofbrauhaus was established 400 years ago and this Lincoln Road spot maintains the real traditions practiced from the beginning.

Royal Bavarian Schnitzel Haus & Pils Bar

1085 N.E. 79^th St.
Miami, FL 33138
(305) 754-8002
www.schnitzelhausmiami.com

As an understated and imperceptible place from the outside and cozy and kitsch inside, this Miami gem is great. With the right amount of wood and lace accents you would expect from a family owned bar, Royal Bavarian provides a pleasant Biergarten seating area for your enjoyment. An extended list of beers, covering every shade from light to dark, accompany a menu that tastes like your oma's cooking. In most cases, the owner/chef Andrew greets you and suggests great menu options when you're at a loss.

German American Club of Greater Miami

11919 S.W. 56^th St.
Miami, FL 33175
(305) 552-5123
www.germanamericanclub-miami.org

Dates: October 19-21 and 26-28, 2012

The German American Club of Greater Miami's mission is "to celebrate our heritage by sharing with the community our German culture, history and traditions." The festivities related to Oktoberfest are authentically celebrated with families and couples sharing a friendly atmosphere and indulging in libations. You can expect to see visitors clad in German apparel and plenty of Oktoberfest beers served alongside giant soft pretzels, sausage platters and German chocolate cakes.

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The German American Club of Hollywood Oktoberfest

6401 Washington St.
Hollywood, FL 33081
(954) 322-6227
www.germanamericanclubhollywood.org

Dates: October 6 and 13, 2012

Rain or shine, the German American Club of Hollywood ensures authenticity with six Oktoberfest beers and genuine German fare like currywurst at its celebration. Both event dates feature the Bavarian Schuhplattlers, a traditional folk dance performed by men trying to impress young ladies eligible for marriage that originated in the regions of Austria and Bavaria. Expect men in suspenders and suede knickers while entertained attendants tap their feet to the rhythm of the music.

Francesca Belluomini is a freelance writer covering all things Miami. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.