Munich On Marietta Street

Oktoberfest is Back at Der Biergarten

Atlanta's German beer garden is gearing up for Oktoberfest, the annual 16-day festival traditionally held in Munich, Germany running from late September to the first weekend in October. There’s no need to leave the country – or even the city – for an authentic experience. Just venture to Der Biergarten in downtown’s Luckie Marietta District.

Kicking off Saturday, September 22 with the traditional tapping of the keg, Der Biergarten’s “Munich on Marietta Street” Oktoberfest celebration will feature authentic German food and beer, festive décor and live entertainment along with special events added this year including a Brat Eating Contest with professional eater Grace Lee and a “Barks & Beer” night for pups on the patio.

Named one of the top beer gardens in the country by USA Today, Fodor's and Delish.com, Der Biergarten is German owned and operated with German staff heading up its culinary team. The restaurant offers more German draft beer than anywhere else in the state with 20 selections on tap and pours more Weihenstephaner products than anyone in the state. For the true German beer connoisseur, Der Biergarten is the only place in Atlanta to carry Zunft Kolsch and Paulaner Salvator on draft and the only restaurant in Georgia to offer Paulaner Weisn on draft for Oktoberfest.

A tradition for more than 200 years, the ceremonial tapping of the keg, taking place on Saturday, September 22 at high noon, signifies the beginning of Oktoberfest and those present are encouraged to fill their steins with the flowing brew. Jacob Herzug and The Bavarian Express will perform from 3:00 until 7:00 p.m., followed by Die Kurtzbaum from 7:00 until 10:00 p.m. and DJ Johnny rounds out the day from 10:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. Warsteiner Pilsners will be on special with $8 liters.

Festivities and beer specials will continue every day through October 7 with live music on weekends. Other main events at a glance: ·

* September 22nd – Oktoberfest Kick Off/Pilsners on the Patio (12 noon) Join us for the tapping of the ceremonial keg and live music all day

* September 25th – Oktoberfest Tweet Up (6 p.m.) Mix it up with Wendy of @ATL_Events and the GALS @galsirens

* September 26th – Oktoberfest Beer Tasting – (7:30 p.m.) Learn about and sample tasty new brews; $35. Register in advance at 404-521-2728 or matt@legacyrestaurantpartners.com.

* September 29th – Brat Eating Contest (3 p.m.) Hosted by Nathan’s Hot Dog finalist and food personality Grace Lee. Post on Der Biergarten’s Facebook page to enter the contest (limited to 8 participants). Prizes will be awarded to winners.

* September 29th – Barks & Beer (4 – 9 p.m.) Bring your pup to the patio for a charitable event to benefit the Georgia SPCA. Barking Hound Village will also be onsite with treats and giveaways for your four-legged friends!  

* October 3rd – Stein Club VIP event (7:30 p.m.) For members only. If interested in joining the club, please call Der Biergarten at 404-521-2728.

* October 6th – Oktoberfest Olympics – (all day) Best mustache, beer belly, stein lifting contests and more!

For more information on Oktoberfest events, please visit www.atloktoberfest.com.

Located in downtown Atlanta’s Luckie Marietta District, Der Biergarten serves up a mouth-watering menu of Brats and wursts, Weiner Schnitzel, Jager Schnitzel, strudels, pretzels, mustards and more.  Choose from 18 authentic German draft beers with a rich history served in traditional half- and one-liter steins. Der Biergarten also follows German tradition with the celebration of seasonal festivals – from Oktoberfest in the fall to elaborate décor during the holidays. Der Biergarten is located a block from the Georgia Aquarium at 300 Marietta Street and is open seven days a week. Groups can book small gatherings or large festivals. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.derbiergarten.com or call 404-521-2728. Parking is validated and complimentary across the street in the Hilton Garden Inn parking garage.