Plan a Backyard Oktoberfest Party

This fall, why not plan a festive backyard Oktoberfest party? Celebrate this traditional harvest festival in the great outdoors, and enjoy the crisper fall days. You don't need a huge outdoor space to host an enjoyable Oktoberfest party! All you need is a good group of friends, an area for people to enjoy some authentic food, and you're ready to celebrate. 

Make sure to have an indoor option too, just in case the weather doesn't look to be in your favor. Or, you can always rent a large tent and stick to your original plan. Long tables are a perfect way to encourage mingling, and will add a touch of the real Oktoberfest atmosphere! 

Here are a few ideas to get you started on your backyard Oktoberfest party:

Decorations: Keep it simple! From blue and white streamers or balloons on a deck or a blue and white checkered tablecloth for your picnic table, it's easy to dress up your outdoor space. Another easy option is a vase with blue and white daisies for an inexpensive centerpiece. 

Food: Serve traditional, hearty German fare for a truly authentic experience. Your guests will love a unique offering of soft pretzels, beer-marinated chicken, currywurst and more! Serve food in covered dishes and use paper plates and plastic utensils for easy cleanup. 

Beverages: While beer is a must, make sure to offer non-alcoholic beverages as well. Lemonade and iced tea are always refreshing options for an outdoor party. Any German beer will be well-suited to your gathering, such as pilsner, bock, marzen/Oktoberfest, hefeweizen, or kolsch just to make a few. Serve beer in large glass beer mugs, from the bottle or a keg if you're hosting a large enough party!

What are you waiting for? Invite your friends, plan a menu, and have a great party!