Thinking about Oktoberfest? Massive amounts of beer first come to mind—and for good reason! This world-famous festival is all about tradition, celebration, and, of course, raising a Maß (liter-sized mug) of specially brewed drink. But Oktoberfest beer isn’t just any lager you can grab at your local store. It follows strict brewing rules, has a unique taste, and comes in two main styles: the classic Märzen and the lighter Festbier. Only six Munich breweries have the honor of producing this special brewery and calling their beer “ Oktoberfest official” served at the festival.

Revelers drinking at Oktoberfest in Munich

Do You Know? 6.7 million attendees visited and consumed 7 million liters of beer during Oktoberfest 2024. 

Each sip of German-style beer captures a distinct taste. Whether you take at the vibrant festivities or enjoy it at home, what makes Oktoberfest beer so special is its key ingredients and definitive features.

Oktoberfest Beer History – How a Maltier Brew Became an Iconic Tradition

Oktoberfest beer traces back to the early 19th century to celebrate Prince Ludwig’s and Princess Therese’s wedding. Their celebrations lasted for days and resulted in the popularity of a lot from the Bavarian culture, such as the traditional lederhosen and dirndl dress, along with plenty of beer.

The Oktoberfest, which is now called the world’s largest beer festivity, didn’t always feature the brews you associate it with today.  The wedding celebration was such a success that it was repeated the following year and eventually became an annual tradition of what we now know as Oktoberfest, and with it came a beer style that remains iconic.

Initially, the drink served was a darker, maltier brew known as Märzen. It was named after the month of March, when it was traditionally brewed and stored in cool caves over the summer. Märzen remained the official beer for Oktoberfest in Germany for around 100 years due to its amber color and toasty malt profile. But as the celebration grew into an international sensation, festival-goers wanted something even more palatable. Munich’s breweries responded with malt-forward lager with a beautiful light golden to copper color (Festbier). This modern Oktoberfest beer style with a clean finish is served at the festival today.

A woman models German attire for Oktoberfest

American vs. German Styles — What’s the Difference

Same name, Different Beer! If you have picked up an Oktoberfest beer outside of Munich, you might have noticed something different—it won’t taste the same. Many people think Oktoberfest brew is just one style, but it’s not. You may find American and German approaches to this special beer tradition. U.S. breweries took the inspiration from the original Märzen, while in Germany, you taste the modern Festbier. Both styles, however, share a malt-forward character.

• Märzen – The Original Oktoberfest Beer

American Oktoberfest Beers are often Märzen-style. It features an amber color and a slightly sweet taste with notes of toffee, biscuit, and bread. They typically have a medium body and a light toasted malt character. Märzen contains 5.8–6.3% alcohol by volume and is slightly heavier than a German Festbier.

• Festbier – More Refreshing Lager

When you think of Oktoberfest beer in Germany, you’re talking about Festbier—the golden, crisp lager that fills massive mugs in Munich’s beer tents. It tends to be paler and more similar to a Dortmunder-style brewer with a balanced flavor profile. Festbier has a clean fermentation character and provides a toasty-doughy aromatic with an impression of sweetness. This makes it easier to drink in liters at festivities. The color varies, but you will find German versions mostly in golden, like a strong Pils-dominated Helles.

When buying any of the above beer styles, read the label. Märzen is always mentioned in the bottle, but if it displays Oktoberfest, you are drinking Festbier.

What Defines the Oktoberfest Beer— A Representative of Bavarian Heritage

Not just any beer can call itself an Oktoberfest beer. It has a unique character and brewing process that sets it apart from your everyday lagers. The drink served at festivities reflects German centuries-old brewing traditions and makes it a symbol of true celebrations.

It Must Be Brewed in Munich

Only six breweries—Augustiner, Paulaner, Spaten, Hofbräu, Hacker-Pschorr, and Löwenbräu—are allowed to serve “official” Oktoberfest beer at the celebration. Other than these are strictly forbidden at the festivities. These breweries operate large and small beer tents at the Theresienwiese to serve millions of people during the festival. Also, the beer must be brewed within the city limits of Munich to ensure authenticity.

It Follows the Reinheitsgebot (German Purity Law)

The beer must meet specific criteria of Bavarian law to be officially recognized as an Oktoberfest brew. This means it only contains

• Water
• Malted barley
• Hops
• Yeast

No additives or shortcuts!

It Has a Balanced, Malty Flavor

Oktoberfest beer is known for its smooth maltiness. Whether it’s the traditional Märzen or the modern Festbier, the flavor profile is malty, smooth, and highly drinkable, with a good balance of sweetness and hop bitterness.

It Has a Higher Alcohol Content

To give it a strong kick, Oktoberfest beers generally have a higher alcohol content compared to typical lagers. The permitted ABV typically ranges from 5.8% to 6.3%, which can vary by brewery. Hofbräuzelt beer is the strongest, with 6.3% alcohol. This gives it a bit more body and warmth, making it perfect for cool autumn celebrations.

It’s a Lager, Not an Ale

Oktoberfest beer is a bottom-fermented lager. This means it ferments at cooler temperatures for a longer time. The lagering results in a refreshing, smooth taste with fewer fruity or spicy flavors compared to ales. It also adds a crisp and clean finish to Oktoberfest beers.

It’s Made for Drinking by the Liter

One of the key features of Oktoberfest beer is its high drinkability. As you don’t just sip it— you celebrate it every few minutes. The beer is brewed to be enjoyed by the liter (Maßkrug) without feeling too heavy. That’s why modern Festbier is lighter than Märzen—so festival-goers can keep drinking all day long!l

Pairs Perfectly with Traditional Bavarian Cuisine to Enhance the Taste 

Drinking Oktoberfest beer is only half the experience—the other half is savoring it with the perfect Bavarian feast. Whether you’re in a lively beer tent in Munich or hosting your Oktoberfest celebration at home, the right food pairing elevates the flavors of your brew. It makes each sip and bite more satisfying.

If you have Märzen-style, try its malty sweetness and yeasty flavor with

• Roasted Meats—A browned, crisp skin of roast chicken or sausage
• Hearty Dishes— The heat of hearty chili, stews, or schweinshaxe (roast ham hock or pork knuckle with gravy).
• Pretzels — Soft, salty, and chewy baked pretzels dip in Obatzda.
• Desserts — Waffles with syrup, pancakes with jam, or cookies and cake.
• Cheese: Gruyere and Emmental or flavor notes found in accompaniments like jam, nuts, toasted bread, or crackers.

If you have Festbier in Munich, complement its light and crips finish with

• Schnitzel — Veal, pork, or chicken when served with lemon or red berry jam.
• Richer Dishes — Creamier recipies like cheesy noodles (käsespätzle), currywurst, or German potato salad.
• Weisswurst — White sausage presented with sweet mustard and a pretzel.
• Traditional Pairings — Roast chicken or pork, sauerkraut, and potato pancakes.

These pairings complement perfectly with the beers’ flavors and add to the overall enjoyment. The caramelized malt in Märzen doubles the taste of savory, slow-roasted meats. Similarly, the sharper and hoppier notes of Oktoberfestbier cut through the richness of creamy and saucy meals.

Wrapping Up

The rich and unique flavor, traditional roots, and the main brewery crafting procedure make Oktoberfest beer special. It is served in two main forms at different geographical locations. If you are in Munich and purchase a beer, it is most likely a light and smooth-textured Festbier. While outside Germany, breweries love to sell the traditional Märzen. The specific rules regulated to serve beer at Oktoberfest make it a unique experience for millions of visitors and set it apart from regular alcoholic drinks.

German Dancers at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest and German Beer Related Articles

• How to Pour a Bavarian Beer the Oktoberfest Way
• Bavaria’s Major Breweries Serving Beer At Oktoberfest Grand Celebration
• Oktoberfest: Beer Expertise Unleashed
• Oktoberfest Beer Season Has Arrived
• Oktoberfest for the Rest
• Tröegs Oktoberfest Returns To Celebrate the German Beer Festival Season
• Troegs Brewing is Releasing Oktoberfest on August 5th
• Human Robot: The First Milk Tube Race in the World: USA vs. The World – Oktoberfest Invitational Beer Fest
• The Evolution of German Beer Culture and Its Influence on Craft Brewing

Note

(Editor note: This was an unpaid guest post by Sophia Tyler.)

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

Thanks again for reading everyone. Take some time to check out the site, we greatly appreciate it. We have affiliates and sponsors with Pretzels.com and Beer Drop.com, which can save you money on their products if you are interested. Check out our articles on them. Make sure to check out our beer reviews, brewery reviews, Amy’s weekly column, book reviews, hike reviews, and so much more.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Leave your likes, comments, suggestions, questions, etc, in the comments section. Or use the Feedback – Contact Us – page, and we’ll get right back to you! You can also reach out to us at our direct e-mail address: thebeerthrillers@gmail.com

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

• MAPS OF BREWERIES

We are also working on a project of creating printable and downloadable PDFs and resources to be able to check and keep track of all of the breweries you’ve been to. So stay tuned for that project once we are finished with the Brewery Maps of the US States.

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We are also now on BlueSky as well, so make sure to check us out there also. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server). We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

We have partnered with an affiliateship with Beer Drop.com. You can check out that partnership and receive great discounts, coupons, and more here: Beer Drop. Going here and logging in and ordering will help you receive your discounts and coupons as well as help support our page. Thank you for helping to support The Beer Thrillers and to help us maintain the site and blog and to keep it running.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of January 2025.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

You can also check out our partnership and affiliation with Pretzels.com, where ordering pretzels and using our affiliate code – AFFILIATE CODE IS THEBEERTHRILLERS20 – will help you get wonderful pretzels and help us maintain and keep this blog running. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

(Thank you for reading. The opinions, thoughts, and expressions of each article posted on The Beer Thrillers represents the author of the content and only themselves. It does not express the opinions, beliefs, or ideas held by The Beer Thrillers or any company in which the author themselves work for. Each piece of written content is written by the creator(s) listed in the authorial section on each article unless otherwise noted. Their opinions, comments, and words on screen do not represent any company in which they work for and / or are affiliated with or any non – profits that they contribute to. Thank you.)

Oktoberfest (photo courtesy of Amber Julie)

By: Amber Julie

Wanna experience the magic of Oktoberfest in your own backyard? But wondering how? Here is a treat for beer lovers. Pouring a Bavarian beer just like the way Germans do or you see at Oktoberfest tents brings the true essence of their culture to your table. This art involves the exact foaming length or three-finger rule used at Oktoberfest beer tents. You must follow the traditional methods to ensure the perfect experience. Otherwise, it won’t be more like an ordinary drink.

Why the Perfect Pour Matters?

The way beer is poured can influence its taste, aroma and even a beer’s appearance. Germans won’t wait for a late tram, even for 2 minutes, but they will wait for 7 minutes while beer is being poured (viewers comment). This signifies the beer culture in Bavaria. You notice the Bavarian beer always has that thick, creamy foam on top. That’s not the accident. The perfect pour makes the beer look amazing, flavorful and fresh for longer. Plus, drinking beer like this makes you feel like you are at a German festival.

For customers wanting a logical answer, the right pouring methods help activate the beer’s carbonation. When you pour a beer, especially from the bottle or can, you are releasing the carbon dioxide which forms bubbles and creates foam. The proper foam head is not just for show. It offers wonderful aromas that allow you to smell the beer’s unique characteristics before you take a sip.

First, Understand the German Beer Types

In Bavaria, the main varieties are lager, pilsner, and wheat beer (that’s weissbier if you want to sound fancy). Each of these brews has its own unique taste and is different in its pouring style.

• Lager – This is your classic beer that is less carbonated. You can pour it quickly without worry.
• Pilsner – A bit more carbonated than lager, but still pretty straightforward to handle.
• Wheat Beer – This one is more explosive and it comes with yeast sitting at the bottom. You will need to take extra care with this one to keep that flavour intact.

Don’t Overlook the Foam!

In Germany, especially at Oktoberfest, beer is not just about the liquid; it is about how you present it. If there is a slight difference in pouring time or style, like you pour a 7-minute Pilsner in 3 minutes, the locals won’t accept it. The foaming length also matters. At Oktoberfest, about 1.5 inches of solid foam is preferable. Little than or no foam is literally not a Bavarian style. This enhances the visual appeal and retains aromas, making the experience more enjoyable.

Fun Little Trick of Oktoberfest Beer Tents — Three Finger Rule

It is a traditional guideline for pouring a beer during the world’s largest volkfest. The three-finger rule suggests that the ideal foam head should occupy the top up to three fingers width. Then, followed by three fingers of beer. Lastly, three fingers should be discarded if drinking from a large 1-litre stein. This measurement ensures that the beer remains cold and enjoyable until you take the last sip.

Don’t Spoil Your Bavarian Beer Taste with Silly Thing

• Many people are tempted to do this, but you should never pour leftover beer from an old glass into a fresh one or vice versa. It would ruin the flavour. Always finish your glass before grabbing another.
• There is one more rule for Bavarian beer. Pairing it with fruit or lemon is not a common practice for traditional styles in Germany, but you can ask it with only Kristallweizen. It is lighter and can enjoyed with some sort of fruit.

Master the Pouring Techniques for Each Beer Type

As said, first impressions matter. There is no exception for beer, too. A well-poured beer in an Oktoberfest way looks inviting, with rich foam and a clear body. It helps keep the beer carbonated for a long time. If you pour too aggressively, you can cause a massive explosion and end up with an awkward mess. Conversely, pouring too slowly results in little or no foam.

Wheat Beer

1. Grab your glass and tilt it more than 45 angles. In simple words, almost horizontally.
2. Stick the bottleneck deep into the glass.
3. Start pouring slowly to fill the two-thirds of the glass without creating a mountain of foam.
4. Gradually straighten the glass and pour the remaining beer directly into the centre, but a bit quickly. This will create a nice, thick head of foam.
5. Leave a little beer in the bottle. Swirl it gently to mix in the yeast, then pour it into the glass for added flavour.

Pilsner

1. Start with the same glass tilted, but it should be at the exact 45 degrees this time.
2. Pour the beer a little faster than the Weissbier until you’ve filled half of the glass.
3. Chill for a minute to let the foam settle.
4. Repeat this procedure until the bottle gets empty–pour a little and wait for a minute.
5. Germans say good pilsner takes seven minutes to pour (the patience of a saint).

Lager

1. Hold the glass at 45 degrees with the tip of the bottle inside.
2. Let it flow quickly, and once you reach about 2/3rd full, straighten the glass.
3. Wait for a few seconds for the foam to settle before serving.
4. This is quite easy to pour Lager than the other two.

Get ready to Cheers!

So you have poured a perfect beer, and now what? It's time to toast! At Oktoberfest, people donning traditional attire like Lederhosen and Dirndl say, “Prost!” So, while grabbing the beer stain with the exact Bavarian-style beer, don’t forget to cheer out loud in the same way with your friends. This will add fun, no matter whether you are partying at home or capturing the essence at a place other than Oktoberfest.

Other Articles by Amber Julie

• Oktoberfest: Beer Expertise Unleashed
• Bavaria’s Major Breweries Serving Beer At Oktoberfest Grand Celebration
• How to Pour a Bavarian Beer the Oktoberfest Way

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

Thanks again for reading everyone. Take some time to check out the site, we greatly appreciate it. We have affiliates and sponsors with Pretzels.com and Beer Drop.com, which can save you money on their products if you are interested. Check out our articles on them. Make sure to check out our beer reviews, brewery reviews, Amy’s weekly column, book reviews, hike reviews, and so much more.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Leave your likes, comments, suggestions, questions, etc, in the comments section. Or use the Feedback – Contact Us – page, and we’ll get right back to you! You can also reach out to us at our direct e-mail address: thebeerthrillers@gmail.com

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

• MAPS OF BREWERIES

We are also working on a project of creating printable and downloadable PDFs and resources to be able to check and keep track of all of the breweries you’ve been to. So stay tuned for that project once we are finished with the Brewery Maps of the US States.

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We are also now on BlueSky as well, so make sure to check us out there also. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server). We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

We have partnered with an affiliateship with Beer Drop.com. You can check out that partnership and receive great discounts, coupons, and more here: Beer Drop. Going here and logging in and ordering will help you receive your discounts and coupons as well as help support our page. Thank you for helping to support The Beer Thrillers and to help us maintain the site and blog and to keep it running.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of August 2024.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

You can also check out our partnership and affiliation with Pretzels.com, where ordering pretzels and using our affiliate code – AFFILIATE CODE IS THEBEERTHRILLERS20 – will help you get wonderful pretzels and help us maintain and keep this blog running. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

(Thank you for reading. The opinions, thoughts, and expressions of each article posted on The Beer Thrillers represents the author of the content and only themselves. It does not express the opinions, beliefs, or ideas held by The Beer Thrillers or any company in which the author themselves work for. Each piece of written content is written by the creator(s) listed in the authorial section on each article unless otherwise noted. Their opinions, comments, and words on screen do not represent any company in which they work for and / or are affiliated with or any non – profits that they contribute to. Thank you.)

Fuzzy Few Festival 2024

Fuzzy Few Organization Presents the Fuzzy Few Festival With Beer Garden 2024

Fuzzy Few Festival

Previously known as the Fuzzy Few Carnival, this year the Fuzzy Few Organization is renaming and rebranding it as a Festival rather than a carnival.

For the past 55 years it has been the Fuzzy Few Carnival and has happened near or around the middle of August every year. With the Hummelstown Fireman’s Carnival happening in the end of June each year.

Unfortunately, as with most things – COVID – 19 changed a lot of the way events, activities, and things like this work. And with all of that it became harder and harder for the Fuzzy Few Organization (FFO) to be able to secure carnival groups to come help assist their carnival each year. Last year they were unable to have rides and other vendors due to this, but they did procure some inflatable activities and playground stuff for children.

(See last year’s article: Fuzzy Few Organization Presents the Fuzzy Few Festival With Beer Garden 2023.)

So pivoting for 2023 they announced the Fuzzy Few Festival (instead of the Fuzzy Few Carnival).

Now in its second year as the Fuzzy Few Festival, it returns for 2024 from August 12th through August 17th.

It will run from August 12th through August 17th 2024 at Schaffner Park (Boro Park).

Beer Garden

The Beer Garden has moved from the caged in basketball courts to right directly in front of the band stage – and as a bonus – they will allow guests to purchase the alcohol and move about the festival rather than having to stay within the basketball court like last year.

Known beer will be Troegs Independent Brewing (who has graciously donated eight [8] cases of beer to the event) – Perpetual IPA, Sunshine Pilsner, and Graffiti Highway IPA – as well as Blue Moon, Coors Light, and Miller Lite. (More could be announced.) Also on top of beer there is mixed drink, wine, cocktails, and select other beverages.

Pentagon

The band Pentagon are hosting their “farewell tour” and one of their final gigs will be the closing day of the Fuzzy Few Festival 2024. This might be your last chance to catch them in action, so be sure to come out Saturday August 17th. The festival runs until 11:30 PM.

Amy and the Alzheimer’s Association

Make sure you stop out to visit Amy at her Alzheimer’s Assocciation stand. (I’ll also be helping out a few nights after work). Raising awareness for Alzheimer’s and for the Alzheimer’s Association.

She will have a stand at the Festival, so you can stop in, talk with her (or us) and hang out, and get information, fliers, pamphlets and information about Alzheimer’s, the Alzheimer’s Association, and their work raising awareness, looking for a cure, charitable work, as well as the upcoming End ALZ Walks.

Band Lineup

The bands lined up for the First Inaugural Fuzzy Few Festival are:

• Monday (August 12th) – Honey Pump
• Tuesday (August 13th) – Smooth Like Clyde
• Wednesday (August 14th) – Class Act
• Thursday (August 15th) – Luv Gods
• Friday (August 16th) – Soul Solution
• Saturday (August 17th) – Pentagon

History of Fuzzy Few Organization

The founding of the Organization, know as the Fuzzy Few, came about during Hummelstown’s 200th Anniversary. It was formed as a Bearded Brothers Club to participate in that celebration. After playing a very active role during the time of fun and merriment, the men in the club decided to apply for an official charter and operate as a non-profit organization in the community of Hummelstown.

The organization’s official emblem was registered and approved on December 29th, 1963. The emblem also indicates the clubs desire to promote goodwill and fellowship not only within the organization but also throughout the community and surrounding areas.

The goal of the organization since its founding has been to establish and support community and youth related programs.

THE FOLLOWING WERE F.F.O., INC. PROJECTS:

• Park Benches (Located throughout Hummelstown)
• Schaffner Park Refreshments Stand and Pavilion

THE FOLLOWING PROGRAMS ARE CONTRIBUTED TO PERIODICALLY BY THE F.F.O., INC.:

• The Community Library
• Lower Dauphin Sports & Intramural Programs
• Hummelstown Square & Parks Improvements
• Community Christmas Decorations
• Hummelstown Nature Train Expansion & Development
• Schaffner Park Facilities Improvements
• Hummelstown Police Bike Rodeo
• Miss Hummelstown Contest – Parade/Awards

THE FOLLOWING PROGRAMS ARE SPONSORED BY THE F.F.O., INC.:

• FFO Annual Carnival – Hummelstown Schaffner Park
• College Scholarships – Lower Dauphin High School
• Midget Football Program – Hummelstown
• Pony Football Program – Hummelstown
• Midget Cheerleaders – Hummelstown
• Pony Cheerleaders – Hummelstown
• Midget / Pony Football Awards Banquet
• Girls Youth Basketball Program – Hummelstown
• Life Skills Basketball
• Hummel Nature Trail – Maintenance & Improvements
• Memorial Day Wreaths at Local Cemeteries
• Memorial Day Wreath Plaque – On Display at VFW
• Memorial Day Services – Logistical Support
• Annual Santa Claus Visit – Schaffner Park
• Annual Santa Claus Visit – Nye Elementary School
• Free Carnival Stand – Provide for a Local Organization

THE FOLLOWING PROJECTS ARE SUPPORTED ANNUALLY BY THE F.F.O., INC.:

• Hummelstown Baseball Association
• Hummelstown Girls Fast Pitch League
• Hummelstown Civic Association
• Hummelstown Fire Company
• Lower Dauphin Sports Booster Clubs
• Hummelstown Cemetery Association
• Hummelstown Food Bank
• VFW & American Legion Easter Egg Hunt
• Senior Citizen Elder Express
• Hummelstown Crime Watch
• Hummelstown Cystic Fibrosis Walk
• Hummelstown New Years Celebration (Lollipop Drop) (defunct)

Fuzzy Few

YOUTH… FELLOWSHIP… GOODWILL

Fuzzy Few Organization Motto

For More Information

• Fuzzy Few Organization (Facebook)
• What is the Fuzzy Few? – PennLive
• About the FFO – Lower Dauphin Football
• Fuzzy Few Organization (Twitter)
• Fuzzy Few Organization – The Sun
• No Rides, But Beer? – The Sun
• Fuzzy Few Organization Presents the Fuzzy Few Festival (2023)

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

Thanks again for reading everyone. Take some time to check out the site, we greatly appreciate it. We have affiliates and sponsors with Pretzels.com and Beer Drop.com, which can save you money on their products if you are interested. Check out our articles on them. Make sure to check out our beer reviews, brewery reviews, Amy’s weekly column, book reviews, hike reviews, and so much more.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Leave your likes, comments, suggestions, questions, etc, in the comments section. Or use the Feedback – Contact Us – page, and we’ll get right back to you! You can also reach out to us at our direct e-mail address: thebeerthrillers@gmail.com

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

• MAPS OF BREWERIES

We are also working on a project of creating printable and downloadable PDFs and resources to be able to check and keep track of all of the breweries you’ve been to. So stay tuned for that project once we are finished with the Brewery Maps of the US States.

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server). We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

We have partnered with an affiliateship with Beer Drop.com. You can check out that partnership and receive great discounts, coupons, and more here: Beer Drop. Going here and logging in and ordering will help you receive your discounts and coupons as well as help support our page. Thank you for helping to support The Beer Thrillers and to help us maintain the site and blog and to keep it running.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of August 2024.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

You can also check out our partnership and affiliation with Pretzels.com, where ordering pretzels and using our affiliate code – AFFILIATE CODE IS THEBEERTHRILLERS20 – will help you get wonderful pretzels and help us maintain and keep this blog running. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

(Thank you for reading. The opinions, thoughts, and expressions of each article posted on The Beer Thrillers represents the author of the content and only themselves. It does not express the opinions, beliefs, or ideas held by The Beer Thrillers or any company in which the author themselves work for. Each piece of written content is written by the creator(s) listed in the authorial section on each article unless otherwise noted. Their opinions, comments, and words on screen do not represent any company in which they work for and / or are affiliated with or any non – profits that they contribute to. Thank you.)

Pennsylvania is a craft beer mecca, boasting a huge number of breweries. But some offer more than just great beer; they provide the perfect destination for a complete beer-focused getaway. If you are looking for the ultimate Pennsylvania beer vacation, look no further. We’ve explored the state to bring you breweries that offer on-site lodging, create a true vacation experience, or are part of a larger, must-visit beer trail.

Turkey Hill Brewery (photo courtesy of Turkey Hill Brewing Co.)

Why Pennsylvania is Perfect for a Beer Vacation

Pennsylvania’s rich brewing history, combined with its stunning landscapes and vibrant towns, makes it an ideal location for a beer-themed vacation. From cozy brewpubs in historic buildings to sprawling breweries with modern accommodations, PA has something to offer every beer lover.

Top Pennsylvania Breweries for a Beer Getaway

Here are some of our top picks for Pennsylvania breweries that offer an exceptional beer vacation experience:

Black Forest Brewery | Ephrata, PA: Beer & Bed in Amish Country

Imagine combining award-winning craft beer with a stay in a top-rated bed and breakfast. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Black Forest Brewery in Ephrata, PA.

• The Brewery: Located in the heart of Ephrata, Black Forest Brewery offers a diverse selection of hand-crafted beers, from classic styles to innovative brews. Their food menu features salads, sandwiches, and pub favorites, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Wine and cocktails are also available.

• The Inn: The brewery is adjacent to the 1777 Americana Inn Bed & Breakfast, recognized as a “Top B&B for Beer Lovers” by BedandBreakfast.com. Enjoy beautifully appointed rooms and a delicious breakfast before exploring the local area.

• Things to Do: Explore the charming town of Ephrata, sample local Amish fare, or take a scenic drive through the countryside.

Turkey Hill Brewing Company | Bloomsburg, PA: Historic Charm & Delicious Brews

Just off I-80 in Bloomsburg, Turkey Hill Brewing Company offers a unique experience rooted in the area’s farming history. This brewpub features an inn housed in a beautifully refurbished 1800s barn.

• The Brewery: Turkey Hill offers some of the area’s best beers and food. Enjoy a cozy English-style pub on the main floor, or head upstairs for a farmhouse-style setting.

• The Inn: The historic inn provides the perfect place to relax after a day of beer tasting. Enjoy breathtaking views and comfortable accommodations.

• The Food: The menu goes beyond typical bar fare, with options ranging from burgers and sandwiches to entrees like Korean BBQ chicken and shepherd’s pie.

• Things to Do: Explore the scenic surroundings, visit nearby state parks, or discover the history of Bloomsburg.

Rusty Rail Brewing Company | Mifflinburg, PA: Brews & Suites Under One Roof

Located in an expansive 80,000-square-foot building, Rusty Rail Brewing Company offers an immersive beer experience complete with on-site suites.

• The Brewery: This 15-barrel brewery boasts a rotating beer list and a diverse food menu to satisfy any palate. With two floors and full bars, there’s plenty of space to explore.

• The Suites: Rusty Rail features fully furnished suites right above the brewery, complete with kitchenettes and bathrooms.

• Things to Do: Explore the shops and attractions in Mifflinburg or simply relax and enjoy the brewery’s many offerings.

Whitehorse Brewing | Berlin, PA: Beer Garden & Airbnb

Whitehorse Brewing in Berlin, PA offers not only great beer but also a beer garden and an overnight stay option.

• The Brewery: Enjoy a variety of beers in their cozy taproom or outside in their beer garden.

• The Airbnb: Owners George and Susan Walker rent out space in their house on the property for guests.

• Things to Do: As their AirBnB listing says “not only will you get a great night sleep, but there are many activities to choose from, including exclusive brewery access. Minutes away from Flight 93 Memorial, The Great Allegheny Passage Bike Trail and Ohiopyle Whitewater Rafting.”

Explore a Pennsylvania Beer Trail: The Butler County Beer Circuit

For a truly immersive beer experience, consider exploring a Pennsylvania beer trail. We recommend the Butler County Beer Circuit.

• The Circuit: The Butler County Beer Circuit features eight breweries (with more on the way), each offering a unique selection of beers and atmospheres.

• The Breweries: Participating breweries include Butler Brew Works, Cellar Works Brewing, Missing Links Brewery, North Country Brewery And Cannery, Reclamation Brewing, Recon Brewing, ShuBrew, and Stick City Brewing.

• The Experience: With diverse offerings and unique atmospheres, the Butler Beer Circuit is perfect for a weekend getaway. Many locations offer in-house food, and even those that don’t often host rotating food trucks.

• Where to Stay: There are plenty of overnight options along the circuit, making it easy to explore all eight breweries at your own pace.

Plan Your Pennsylvania Beer Vacation Today!

With its diverse breweries, stunning scenery, and unique accommodations, Pennsylvania offers the perfect destination for a memorable beer vacation. Start planning your trip today and discover the best of Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene!

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

Thanks again for reading everyone. Take some time to check out the site, we greatly appreciate it. We have affiliates and sponsors with Pretzels.com and Beer Drop.com, which can save you money on their products if you are interested. Check out our articles on them. Make sure to check out our beer reviews, brewery reviews, Amy’s weekly column, book reviews, hike reviews, and so much more.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Leave your likes, comments, suggestions, questions, etc, in the comments section. Or use the Feedback – Contact Us – page, and we’ll get right back to you! You can also reach out to us at our direct e-mail address: thebeerthrillers@gmail.com

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

• MAPS OF BREWERIES

We are also working on a project of creating printable and downloadable PDFs and resources to be able to check and keep track of all of the breweries you’ve been to. So stay tuned for that project once we are finished with the Brewery Maps of the US States.

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We are also now on BlueSky as well, so make sure to check us out there also. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server). We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

We have partnered with an affiliateship with Beer Drop.com. You can check out that partnership and receive great discounts, coupons, and more here: Beer Drop. Going here and logging in and ordering will help you receive your discounts and coupons as well as help support our page. Thank you for helping to support The Beer Thrillers and to help us maintain the site and blog and to keep it running.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of January 2025.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

You can also check out our partnership and affiliation with Pretzels.com, where ordering pretzels and using our affiliate code – AFFILIATE CODE IS THEBEERTHRILLERS20 – will help you get wonderful pretzels and help us maintain and keep this blog running. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

(Thank you for reading. The opinions, thoughts, and expressions of each article posted on The Beer Thrillers represents the author of the content and only themselves. It does not express the opinions, beliefs, or ideas held by The Beer Thrillers or any company in which the author themselves work for. Each piece of written content is written by the creator(s) listed in the authorial section on each article unless otherwise noted. Their opinions, comments, and words on screen do not represent any company in which they work for and / or are affiliated with or any non – profits that they contribute to. Thank you.)

Fuzzy Few Festival

Previously known as the Fuzzy Few Carnival, this year the Fuzzy Few Organization is renaming and rebranding it as a Festival rather than a carnival.

For the past 55 years it has been the Fuzzy Few Carnival and has happened near or around the middle of August every year. With the Hummelstown Fireman’s Carnival happening in the end of June each year.

Unfortunately, as with most things – COVID – 19 changed a lot of the way events, activities, and things like this work. And with all of that it became harder and harder for the Fuzzy Few Organization (FFO) to be able to secure carnival groups to come help assist their carnival each year. Last year they were unable to have rides and other vendors due to this, but they did procure some inflatable activities and playground stuff for children.

So pivoting for 2023 they announced the Fuzzy Few Festival (instead of the Fuzzy Few Carnival). It will run from August 14th through August 19th 2023 at Schaffner Park (Boro Park). They will also be having a beer garden for the first time, held in the fenced in basketball courts at the lower end of the park by the Olde Antique Factory.

The beer garden will be 21+ only and will feature several brands and breweries for sale.

Amy and the Alzheimer’s Association

Make sure you stop out to visit Amy at her Alzheimer’s Assocciation stand. (I’ll also be helping out a few nights after work). Raising awareness for Alzheimer’s and for the Alzheimer’s Association.

She will have a stand at the Festival, so you can stop in, talk with her (or us) and hang out, and get information, fliers, pamphlets and information about Alzheimer’s, the Alzheimer’s Association, and their work raising awareness, looking for a cure, charitable work, as well as the upcoming End ALZ Walks.

Band Lineup

The bands lined up for the First Inaugural Fuzzy Few Festival are:

• Monday (August 14th) – Honey Pump
• Tuesday (August 15th) – Smooth Like Clyde
• Wednesday (August 16th) – Class Act
• Thursday (August 17th) – Luv Gods
• Friday (August 18th) – Soul Solution
• Saturday (August 19th) – Pentagon

History of Fuzzy Few Organization

The founding of the Organization, know as the Fuzzy Few, came about during Hummelstown’s 200th Anniversary. It was formed as a Bearded Brothers Club to participate in that celebration. After playing a very active role during the time of fun and merriment, the men in the club decided to apply for an official charter and operate as a non-profit organization in the community of Hummelstown.

The organization’s official emblem was registered and approved on December 29th, 1963. The emblem also indicates the clubs desire to promote goodwill and fellowship not only within the organization but also throughout the community and surrounding areas.

The goal of the organization since its founding has been to establish and support community and youth related programs.

THE FOLLOWING WERE F.F.O., INC. PROJECTS:

• Park Benches (Located throughout Hummelstown)
• Schaffner Park Refreshments Stand and Pavilion

THE FOLLOWING PROGRAMS ARE CONTRIBUTED TO PERIODICALLY BY THE F.F.O., INC.:

• The Community Library
• Lower Dauphin Sports & Intramural Programs
• Hummelstown Square & Parks Improvements
• Community Christmas Decorations
• Hummelstown Nature Train Expansion & Development
• Schaffner Park Facilities Improvements
• Hummelstown Police Bike Rodeo
• Miss Hummelstown Contest – Parade/Awards

THE FOLLOWING PROGRAMS ARE SPONSORED BY THE F.F.O., INC.:

• FFO Annual Carnival – Hummelstown Schaffner Park
• College Scholarships – Lower Dauphin High School
• Midget Football Program – Hummelstown
• Pony Football Program – Hummelstown
• Midget Cheerleaders – Hummelstown
• Pony Cheerleaders – Hummelstown
• Midget / Pony Football Awards Banquet
• Girls Youth Basketball Program – Hummelstown
• Life Skills Basketball
• Hummel Nature Trail – Maintenance & Improvements
• Memorial Day Wreaths at Local Cemeteries
• Memorial Day Wreath Plaque – On Display at VFW
• Memorial Day Services – Logistical Support
• Annual Santa Claus Visit – Schaffner Park
• Annual Santa Claus Visit – Nye Elementary School
• Free Carnival Stand – Provide for a Local Organization

THE FOLLOWING PROJECTS ARE SUPPORTED ANNUALLY BY THE F.F.O., INC.:

• Hummelstown Baseball Association
• Hummelstown Girls Fast Pitch League
• Hummelstown Civic Association
• Hummelstown Fire Company
• Lower Dauphin Sports Booster Clubs
• Hummelstown Cemetery Association
• Hummelstown Food Bank
• VFW & American Legion Easter Egg Hunt
• Senior Citizen Elder Express
• Hummelstown Crime Watch
• Hummelstown Cystic Fibrosis Walk
• Hummelstown New Years Celebration (Lollipop Drop) (defunct)

Fuzzy Few

YOUTH… FELLOWSHIP… GOODWILL

Fuzzy Few Organization Motto

For More Information

• Fuzzy Few Organization (Facebook)
• What is the Fuzzy Few? – PennLive
• About the FFO – Lower Dauphin Football
• Fuzzy Few Organization (Twitter)
• Fuzzy Few Organization – The Sun
• No Rides, But Beer? – The Sun

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

Thanks again for reading everyone. Take some time to check out the site, we greatly appreciate it. We have affiliates and sponsors with Pretzels.com and Beer Drop.com, which can save you money on their products if you are interested. Check out our articles on them. Make sure to check out our beer reviews, brewery reviews, Amy’s weekly column, book reviews, hike reviews, and so much more.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Leave your likes, comments, suggestions, questions, etc, in the comments section. Or use the Feedback – Contact Us – page, and we’ll get right back to you! You can also reach out to us at our direct e-mail address: thebeerthrillers@gmail.com

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

• MAPS OF BREWERIES

We are also working on a project of creating printable and downloadable PDFs and resources to be able to check and keep track of all of the breweries you’ve been to. So stay tuned for that project once we are finished with the Brewery Maps of the US States.

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server). We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

We have partnered with an affiliateship with Beer Drop.com. You can check out that partnership and receive great discounts, coupons, and more here: Beer Drop. Going here and logging in and ordering will help you receive your discounts and coupons as well as help support our page. Thank you for helping to support The Beer Thrillers and to help us maintain the site and blog and to keep it running.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #7 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #8 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of January 2023.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

You can also check out our partnership and affiliation with Pretzels.com, where ordering pretzels and using our affiliate code – AFFILIATE CODE IS THEBEERTHRILLERS20 – will help you get wonderful pretzels and help us maintain and keep this blog running. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

If you would like to help keep the blog running soundly and smoothly, you may donate to us to help us keep the costs of the blog to a minimum. We greatly appreciate it. Thank you. (Clicking this link will take you to the page to make a donation. Thank you very much for helping us stay afloat!)

(Thank you for reading. The opinions, thoughts, and expressions of each article posted on The Beer Thrillers represents the author of the content and only themselves. It does not express the opinions, beliefs, or ideas held by The Beer Thrillers or any company in which the author themselves work for. Each piece of written content is written by the creator(s) listed in the authorial section on each article unless otherwise noted. Their opinions, comments, and words on screen do not represent any company in which they work for and / or are affiliated with or any non – profits that they contribute to. Thank you.)

Beer Gardens – a perfect spot for craft beer and gaming

Beer gardens and gaming halls are joining forces to create an exciting new trend in the leisure and entertainment industry. This innovative concept combines the relaxed atmosphere of traditional beer gardens with the thrill of interactive gaming, offering patrons a unique social experience.

The Appeal of Beer Gardens and Gaming Halls

Beer gardens have long been popular for their outdoor setting, craft beer selections, and social atmosphere. Gaming halls, on the other hand, provide excitement through various gaming options, from classic arcade games to modern gambling experiences. By merging these two elements, venues are creating a diverse social scene that caters to a wide range of preferences. This combination not only enhances the patron’s experience but also increases engagement and retention rates.

Gaming Options: From Physical to Digital

While many venues focus on physical games, there’s a growing trend towards incorporating digital gaming options. This expansion allows venues to reach a broader audience and cater to those who prefer online gaming experiences.

Creating a Unique Social Experience

The fusion of beer gardens and gaming halls creates a versatile social setting where visitors can relax or engage in various activities. Key features include:

• Shared tables and outdoor seating
• Trees and landscaping
• Social games like darts and shuffleboard
• More intense gaming options such as poker and slot machines

This diverse offering appeals to a wide range of patrons, from casual beer enthusiasts to dedicated gamers.

Case Study: Pennsylvania’s Beer Gardens and Gaming Halls

Pennsylvania has seen success in combining beer gardens with gaming halls. For example, Sly Fox Brewing Company’s Tasting Room offers:

• An extensive craft beer selection
• A lively beer garden with outdoor games
• An adjacent gaming area with arcade and board games

These establishments have reported increased foot traffic and customer satisfaction due to their diverse entertainment offerings.

The Future of Beer Gardens and Gaming Halls

As this trend continues to evolve, we can expect to see further innovations in the industry. Potential developments include:

• Integration of more electronic and online games
• Elaborate themed events
• Enhanced interactive experiences for patrons

This emerging scene offers a perfect blend of craft beer appreciation and gaming enthusiasm, creating a new direction for social entertainment. By combining the relaxed outdoor social spaces of beer gardens with the interactive elements of gaming halls, these venues are creating a welcoming environment for a diverse range of patrons. As the concept continues to gain popularity, it’s likely to become a significant player in the leisure and entertainment industry.

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

Thanks again for reading everyone. Take some time to check out the site, we greatly appreciate it. We have affiliates and sponsors with Pretzels.com and Beer Drop.com, which can save you money on their products if you are interested. Check out our articles on them. Make sure to check out our beer reviews, brewery reviews, Amy’s weekly column, book reviews, hike reviews, and so much more.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Leave your likes, comments, suggestions, questions, etc, in the comments section. Or use the Feedback – Contact Us – page, and we’ll get right back to you! You can also reach out to us at our direct e-mail address: thebeerthrillers@gmail.com

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

• MAPS OF BREWERIES

We are also working on a project of creating printable and downloadable PDFs and resources to be able to check and keep track of all of the breweries you’ve been to. So stay tuned for that project once we are finished with the Brewery Maps of the US States.

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server). We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

We have partnered with an affiliateship with Beer Drop.com. You can check out that partnership and receive great discounts, coupons, and more here: Beer Drop. Going here and logging in and ordering will help you receive your discounts and coupons as well as help support our page. Thank you for helping to support The Beer Thrillers and to help us maintain the site and blog and to keep it running.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #5 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #9 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of August 2024.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

You can also check out our partnership and affiliation with Pretzels.com, where ordering pretzels and using our affiliate code – AFFILIATE CODE IS THEBEERTHRILLERS20 – will help you get wonderful pretzels and help us maintain and keep this blog running. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

(Thank you for reading. The opinions, thoughts, and expressions of each article posted on The Beer Thrillers represents the author of the content and only themselves. It does not express the opinions, beliefs, or ideas held by The Beer Thrillers or any company in which the author themselves work for. Each piece of written content is written by the creator(s) listed in the authorial section on each article unless otherwise noted. Their opinions, comments, and words on screen do not represent any company in which they work for and / or are affiliated with or any non – profits that they contribute to. Thank you.)

Every so often I manage to get a game-plan to work out. And this was one of those rare occasions! The game-plan going in was to pick up my oldest daughter from her volleyball practice, quickly get to Troegs Brewery and surprise her with getting to see her favorite (local) band, Vinegar Creek Constituency.

We were here for a previous Second Friday at the beer garden at Troegs, I believe it was when they released the cans of Golden Thing and another beer, perhaps Lollihop or one of the other scratches turned main roster, and they had their food truck going and the band playing, and my oldest daughter just fell in love with the band(‘s music).

So, I got her at 6:30 from her volleyball practice, quickly got to Troegs, drove around their entire lot a good 3-4 times and found not a single spot, so I parked in the back corner by the warehouse and the gazebo, in a “not exactly a parking spot – parking spot”. (Which later on, a SUV would totally block off a whole section of the parking lot by parking at a spot where it was a parking spot for him, but he didn’t back into his spot fully, and it basically made a pincer area out of two parked cars so an entire row of parking spaces couldn’t get out…plus my “illegal/legal” spot.)

This was a special Second Friday though at Troegs, not only was it a Second Friday, not only was it a full moon, and not only was it “Friday the 13th”, it was also a can release! (Oh yea, the importance of those might be in the wrong order, I don’t know). They released cans of “Trail Day Pale Ale”, a recent scratch that they perfected. Also, to my shock, when I saw the menu, they had Fresh Fest on the taplist (inside) – which wasn’t there Sunday when I was last there.

After parking, and getting into the beer garden, which amazingly isn’t packed, we found a table three away from the band, with a couple sitting at it but with room for us, I plop the kiddo down and her gatorade from practice, order us two chicken tacos, and head inside for my beers (since they didn’t have Trail Day outside, which I was a bit surprised by since it was the release of the day). The inside was jam packed. Upstairs, downstairs, packed, tour going on as well that looked full. Every booth was full, even the patio tables were full, the bar was full, and without going upstairs but looking up at the loft, it looked full too. Wait in line at the bar, and see that they have Fresh Fest. I decide on just a taster for that (8.50$ for a half pint or 3.50$ for a 4oz, plus I was getting a full pint of Trail Day, and with the kid and driving, figured it’d be the safer route). Take the beers back to our table right as the band finishes their set-up and starts up at just a bit before 7 and the tacos are done and its time to dive in.

Craft breweries do some amazing tacos. They are “high end” tacos, like the ones at Newfangled, and at other food truck type things, or even the specialty day tacos at certain breweries, but they are always fantastic. Not exactly the most filling usually, and obviously you’re dropping a few more dollar bills on this than the 5-pack at Taco Bell, but for taste, its so worth it.

I was surprised to see Fresh Fest on the menu and having not had it, I figured why not, and grabbed myself a taster of that. (Was originally just planning on drinking a few Trail Days while listening and hanging out with the kid, but its always nice to get to try a couple new beers, so of course I’m gonna jump on that chance.)

Beer: Fresh Fest
Brewery: Troegs Independent Brewing Company
Collaboration: Apis Meadery
Style: Honey Beer
ABV: 6%
IBU: No IBU
Untappd Write-Up: We believe that good beer brings out the good in people. To celebrate the return of Fresh Fest -the nation’s first black beer festival- The drinking Partners, Apis Meadery and Troegs Independent Brewing gathered around a brew kettle to combine two quintessential summer flavors: peach cobbler and a bright refreshing honey ale. Pilsner, Vienna and honey malt stand in for the flaky crust, Pennsylvania honey and kveik yeast provide a sweet glaze, and peaches, apricots and a late dose of El Dorado and Lemondrop hops fill in the middle with balance of slight tartness and sweet fruit. Ready for seconds yet?

This is kind of a mix between a mead, and a tart/sour beer. Its a wonderful and interesting combination and does make me wish I got a full pint of it. Though, this is definitely no pounder, and not one you will be drinking more of one in a sitting most likely, not due to ABV or anything like that, but its just a heavy, full beer, that will sit on you for a bit. (Not a bad thing.)

Appearance is a bright orange glow. A meadish bright orange hue that (perhaps my picture doesn’t do justice to it) is clear, translucent, and has a shine to it. Honey colored through and through.

Aroma is very heavy peach. Kind of a funky peach, kind of ripe peach, but a tart, funky peach. A nice smell that tickled the nose and was just overall appealing.

Flavor is very heavy peach as well. The honey makes it smooth and provides that heavyness. It finishes with the tartness, but before that you get the heavy peach, the heavy sweet honey, and some breadyness, almost like a sweet peach pie (if I ate those kind of things) before it transitions into a tart peach pie (again, if I ate those kind of things). Its not overly dry but the tartness gives a bit of a sensation of that at the end, but this isn’t anything unpleasant and compliments the sweetness at the beginning of the beer very nicely.

My Untappd Rating: ****
Global Untappd Rating: 3.63 (as of 9.13.19)

The Fresh Fest went perfect with the taco, complimenting it very nicely. Debated even getting a second taco, or maybe trying one of the other two styles they had available (Corinitas or Black Bean), but opted out of that idea. (Not sure what corinitas is, but their website listed a “savory pork” taco, so perhaps thats that? I don’t know.) But we did see a few soft pretzels and my daughter decided we needed one… …and she was right, we did. So at the break in the band’s set, I braved myself up, and ventured back inside for the pretzel and a drink for her.

After about a 15-20 minute wait in line, and another 2-3 minutes for it to get done, got back outside as the band was starting up their second act. So at least timing worked out perfectly on that one.

The soft pretzel was absolutely phenomenal (and for 11$ for a soft pretzel, it better damn well be). Passed on getting my regular hop fries, hoping the pretzel would be filling, and it was. We were also (at this point anyway) planning on picking up a smores kit to do by the firepit later on (we ended up not doing it, I guess smores aren’t as cool when you’re 12 years old, I dunno).

Time to drink down this delicious looking pint of Troegs new Trail Day Pale Ale. It was a great beer to wash down the Oktoberfest soft pretzel and to continue our night listening to her favorite band.

Beer: Trail Day
Brewery: Troegs Independent Brewing Company
Style: Pale Ale – American
ABV: 5.5%
IBU: None Listed
Untappd Write-Up: This is the beer you want in hand when your compass lands you at trail’s end. The scene is set with a malt bill full of soft oats. Unmalted wheat from Pennsylvania adds haze and props up the oils of a bright hop combination. Citra dominates with notes of passionfruit and lychee, Lotus adds hints of orange rind and vanilla, and El Dorado works with a fruit-forward yeast to pull in flavors of candied peach. and beneath all that is a foundation of good. When you buy a Trail Day, you’re helping protect the Kittatinny Ridge, a 185-mile Appalahchian superhighway that provides clean water, rich forests, recreational trails and safe passage for migratory wildlife. We taste: peach, passionfruit, lychee.

I really enjoyed this beer as it was a nice typical Troegs beer, which means it had the characteristic Troegs taste for a pale ale/IPA/etc. I legit think I could be given five or six different pale ales/IPAs/wheats/hefeweizens and other similar style beers, blind-folded, and only one of the five or six being a Troegs beer, and I’d be able to pick it out. Its probably the yeast strains they do, or their technique brewing, but they just have a characteristic taste, (perhaps the water?), or maybe I’m over thinking it, or maybe its just because I’ve had over 200+ different, unique beers from them, so I’ve built up a bit of an ‘idea’ on them. I don’t know, but this beer fit that mold, and it tasted great.

Troegs is very big into conservation and helping with wildlife protection, environmentalism, and other great things like this. Like donating and paying for the mural in Harrisburg with proceeds going to the conservancy, just like this beer does. Some money from each pint/can sold (not sure on percentages, you might have to check with Troegs directly for that information), goes to help Kittatinny Ridge conservancy.

As per Wikipedia:
“Kittatinny Mountain (Lenape: Kitahtëne^[1]) is a long ridge traversing across northwestern New Jersey running in a northeast-southwest axis, a continuation across the Delaware Water Gap of Pennsylvania’s Blue Mountain Ridge (also known as Kittatinny Ridge). It is the first major ridge in the far northeastern extension of the Ridge and Valley province of the Appalachian Mountains, and reaches its highest elevation (the state’s highest), 1,803 feet, at High Point in Montague Township. Kittatinny Mountain forms the eastern side of Wallpack Valley; the western side comprises the Wallpack Ridge (highest elevation: 928 feet (283 m) above sea level.”( Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kittatinny_Mountain.)

So its always great to see this, and great that Troegs is helping them out, just makes buying that pint or can of this that extra bit special and nice, and gives you warm glowy butterfly feelings in your tummy.

This is a very hazy pale ale. Its pretty much just one step up from Scratch 380 – Trail Day Dry Hopped Pale Ale. Might even be the same recipe but just given a full name as a regular/seasonal rotation, I don’t know, but its listed as a Pale Ale – New England on the scratch, and a Pale Ale – American on the new fully named version. (I gave the scratch version a **** on Untappd). Either way, this new version of it could easily be labeled a New England Pale Ale as well, as it is very hazy, especially so for a Troegs beer, that typically shies away from the haze.

Appearance is orange, unfiltered, hazy. Its not fully unfiltered but it definitely looks somewhat unfiltered and there is a bit of sediment and floaters (but nothing appalling or unappealing about it). The haze makes it not exactly un-see-through-but-not-super-dense either. (Thats the best way I could explain it.)

Aroma is soft, pale ale qualities, but with a good dose of hops. You can deeply smell the hops and the dry hopping. You get some fruity qualities, mostly stone fruit, like apricot and such, but you get the dry hopping mostly.

Taste is soft as well, pillowy, like the little bit of head that came with the beer. Soft, mellow, but also bursting with taste. Not mellow bland, but mellow soft. There is no hop bitterness from this, and it tastes like a typical NE-IPA or NE-PA. There is a smoothness t it from vanilla that helps with that New England vibe and taste to it. I also pick up notes of orange, passionfruit, and peach, kind of like candied peaches. Almost reminiscent of those peach ring gummies (like the ones Tattered Flag used in a few of their beers, which I reviewed one of). There is a definitely malty backbone to this that isn’t super typical for New England Pale Ales but its pretty subdued, just there, and you know its there. The Citra hops gives it a nice citrus punch that combines with the peach and passionfruit flavors very nicely. And it has a great finish that leaves a very nice and pleasant aftertaste on your tongue.

My Untappd Rating: ****.25
Global Untappd Rating: 3.87 (as of 9.13.19)

The beer garden is a wonderful experience and venue at Troegs whenever they do music here, its always a nice, relaxing atmosphere, with good, low-key vibe music playing. You could hear the band up on the patio, but with the beer garden’s setup you would not have been able to see them. Back beyond the band, they have a firepit that was open all night and lots of families were roasting s’mores on it. My daughter I suppose was “too cool” or “too old” (or just too tired after the band got done) and didn’t want to do it. So once the band packed up, I tried to get her to talk to them or at least get a picture with them, but she got too shy, and refused, so we made our way back to the car. Where… I had to wait and struggle to get out our area due to the SUV.

Afterwards, I dropped my daughter off with her mother, and being in the area I couldn’t help but stop in at Mount Gretna Brewery. So look for a review of the flight I had there probably after work tomorrow (Saturday, the 14th).

All in all, it was one of those rare nights when the game-plan went according to plan, and it was the rare daddy-daughter date night that actually worked out and everyone was happy. So I’m marking it down as a win. She got to see her favorite band that she’s been crushing on, I got to eat tacos and soft pretzels and hang out with my daughter, and she got to eat tacos and soft pretzels and hang out with her old man, and I got to try two new Troegs beers that were delicious. All in all a total win.

Look for my review of the flight from Mount Gretna sometime after 8PM or so when I get home from work, until then, keep “doing what you do”.

-B. Kline

After leaving work at 630 decided to NOT watch the end of the Bengals game, as I had a very good idea of how this was going to turn out (it was 21-17 Seattle when I left work). So taking 743 route home, I stopped at Troegs brewery. Perfect place to avoid football. Not a TV in sight, a gorgeous outdoor beer garden to sit in and drink and read. And pretty much only hipsters and families from the park in sight. Perfect place to avoid the Bengals. To avoid football.

Missed out on Scratch 387 (hazy NE style IPA), and too early for the new Trail Day Pale Ale that their releasing, I grabbed a flight of Fest Lager (looking to be a regular from some of their scratch versions of this), Scratch 385, Scratch 386, and a repeat for me – the Boysenberry Tart Ale.

Something can be said for just how consistent Troegs is with their beers, styles, tastes, and flavors. Over the years, since at least moving to the new facility in Hershey, they have just been flat out consistent. Never really having experienced any off flavors, or downright undrinkable beers, everything confirms to styles and is spot on to their taste listings, etc. A few ‘stinkers’ throughout the year (what brewery hasn’t) and some amazing beers (Nimble Giant immediately comes to mind, various scratches, some of the new splinter series like Blackberry Tizzy), but under it all, just a consistent batch of beers at all times. They might not be creating a list of whales to go and seek out, but the consistency is such an important factor. Give me a brewery that consistently pumps out nearly 4 star beers that all fit the styles and guidelines and taste good over a brewery that gives a 5 star followed up by a 1 star then a 4 star then a 2 star then a 5 star then a 1 star, etc. I’d rather have the reliable consistent beer and brewery next door than the whale chaser that as often times misses the mark than makes it. (Note, this isn’t a call-out or a jab at any one particular brewery, I’m just giving a hypothetical comparison.)

So let’s move on and get into this flight shall we?

This is one of the latest of their scratch versions of marzens, dark lagers, and festbiers, that they typically have done one or two of each year around this time. Now that its named instead of having the scratch designator, it looks like they’ve come to their conclusion on the recipe for this one and it might see play as a seasonal rotation beer at this time. Which is good, this is definitely their best version of it (of those that I’ve had, and I believe I’ve had at least 3 or 4).

Beer: Fest Lager
Brewery: Troegs Independent Craft Brewery
Style: Festbier
ABV: 6.1%
IBU: No IBU
Untappd Write-Up: Our take on this timeless German style – perfected through our small-batch Scratch Series – starts with a traditional brewing technique called decoction. By boiling a portion of the mash, we create a bright, dry maltiness. A kettle addition of Hallertau Tradition hops adds subtle floral and herbal undercurrents to this toasty sweet Fest Lager.

For those curious, there is differences between Marzens and Festbiers. Festbiers are what kind of came out of Marzens turning into Oktoberfest beers and instead of lumping them all together, they got different designations with the subtle differences being the key notes between them. And Festbiers got their own branding instead of being called Oktoberfest mainly not to deal with copyright and similar legality issues (many German breweries, and some American ones had already copyrighted beer names of Oktoberfest before the BJCP could fully define things, as well as the Oktoberfest in Germany, etc., just more of a headache than its worth.)

For those curious for more on the Festbier style, here is the BJCP write-up on it:

4B. Festbier

Overall Impression

A smooth, clean, pale German lager with a moderately strong malty flavor and a light hop character. Deftly balances strength and drinkability, with a palate impression and finish that encourages drinking. Showcases elegant German malt flavors without becoming too heavy or filling.

Appearance

Deep yellow to deep gold color; should not have amber hues. Bright clarity. Persistent white to off-white foam stand. Most commercial examples are medium gold in color.

Aroma

Moderate malty richness, with an emphasis on toasty-doughy aromatics and an impression of sweetness. Low to medium-low floral, herbal, or spicy hops. The malt should not have a deeply toasted, caramel, or biscuity quality. Clean lager fermentation character.

Flavor

Medium to medium-high malty flavor initially, with a lightly toasty, bread dough quality and an impression of soft sweetness. Medium to medium-low bitterness, definitely malty in the balance. Well-attenuated and crisp, but not dry. Medium-low to medium floral, herbal, or spicy hop flavor. Clean lager fermentation character. The taste is mostly of Pils malt, but with slightly toasty hints. The bitterness is supportive, but still should yield a malty, flavorful finish.

Mouthfeel

Medium body, with a smooth, somewhat creamy texture. Medium carbonation. Alcohol strength barely noticeable as warming, if at all.

Comments

This style represents the modern German beer served at Oktoberfest (although it is not solely reserved for Oktoberfest; it can be found at many other ‘fests’), and is sometimes called Wiesn (“the meadow” or local name for the Oktoberfest festival). We chose to call this style Festbier since by German and EU regulations, Oktoberfestbier is a protected appellation for beer produced at large breweries within the Munich city limits for consumption at Oktoberfest. Other countries are not bound by these rules, so many craft breweries in the US produce beer called Oktoberfest, but based on the traditional style described in these guidelines as Märzen.

History

Since 1990, the majority of beer served at Oktoberfest in Munich has been this style. Export beer specifically made for the United States is still mainly of the traditional amber style, as are US-produced interpretations. Paulaner first created the golden version in the mid-1970s because they thought the traditional Oktoberfest was too filling. So they developed a lighter, more drinkable but still malty version that they wanted to be “more poundable” (according to the head brewer at Paulaner). But the actual type of beer served at Oktoberfest is set by a Munich city committee.

Characteristic Ingredients

Majority Pils malt, but with some Vienna and/or Munich malt to increase maltiness. Differences in commercial examples are mostly due to different maltsters and yeast, not major grist differences.

Style Comparison

Less intense and less richly toasted than a Märzen. More rich-heavy in body than a Helles, with more hop flavor and higher alcohol. Less rich in malt intensity than a Maibock. The malt complexity is similar to a higher-gravity Czech Premium Pale Lager, although without the associated hops.

And for comparison sake, here is the BJCP’s write-up on Marzen:

6A. Märzen

Overall Impression

An elegant, malty German amber lager with a clean, rich, toasty and bready malt flavor, restrained bitterness, and a dry finish that encourages another drink. The overall malt impression is soft, elegant, and complex, with a rich aftertaste that is never cloying or heavy.

Appearance

Amber-orange to deep reddish-copper color; should not be golden. Bright clarity, with persistent, off-white foam stand.

Aroma

Moderate intensity aroma of German malt, typically rich, bready, somewhat toasty, with light bread crust notes. Clean lager fermentation character. No hop aroma. Caramel, dry-biscuity, or roasted malt aromas inappropriate. Very light alcohol might be detected, but should never be sharp. Clean, elegant malt richness should be the primary aroma.

Flavor

Initial malt flavor often suggests sweetness, but finish is moderately-dry to dry. Distinctive and complex maltiness often includes a bready, toasty aspect. Hop bitterness is moderate, and the hop flavor is low to none (German types: complex, floral, herbal, or spicy). Hops provide sufficient balance that the malty palate and finish do not seem sweet. The aftertaste is malty, with the same elegant, rich malt flavors lingering. Noticeable caramel, biscuit, or roasted flavors are inappropriate. Clean lager fermentation profile.

Mouthfeel

Medium body, with a smooth, creamy texture that often suggests a fuller mouthfeel. Medium carbonation. Fully attenuated, without a sweet or cloying impression. May be slightly warming, but the strength should be relatively hidden.

Comments

Modern domestic German Oktoberfest versions are golden – see the Festbier style for this version. Export German versions (to the United States, at least) are typically orange-amber in color, have a distinctive toasty malt character, and are most often labeled Oktoberfest. American craft versions of Oktoberfest are generally based on this style, and most Americans will recognize this beer as Oktoberfest. Historic versions of the beer tended to be darker, towards the brown color range, but there have been many ‘shades’ of Märzen (when the name is used as a strength); this style description specifically refers to the stronger amber lager version. The modern Festbier can be thought of as a pale Märzen by these terms.

History

As the name suggests, brewed as a stronger “March beer” in March and lagered in cold caves over the summer. Modern versions trace back to the lager developed by Spaten in 1841, contemporaneous to the development of Vienna lager. However, the Märzen name is much older than 1841; the early ones were dark brown, and in Austria the name implied a strength band (14 °P) rather than a style. The German amber lager version (in the Viennese style of the time) was first served at Oktoberfest in 1872, a tradition that lasted until 1990 when the golden Festbier was adopted as the standard festival beer.

Characteristic Ingredients

Grist varies, although traditional German versions emphasized Munich malt. The notion of elegance is derived from the finest quality ingredients, particularly the base malts. A decoction mash was traditionally used to develop the rich malt profile.

Style Comparison

Not as strong and rich as a Dunkles Bock. More malt depth and richness than a Festbier, with a heavier body and slightly less hops. Less hoppy and equally malty as a Czech Amber Lager.

So, as you can see, a few differences. And that was my knowledge for you for the day. And as GI Joe would say “And Knowledge is Power!” Ahem…. ehmm… err…. cough…. back to the program.

So back to the actual beer, the Fest Lager, by Troegs (in case you dozed off and got prodded by a stick by somebody when they scrolled down to the actual review).

Appearance is on the darker hue of lagers, clear and obviously lager / dunkel like in coloring. Malty appearance, nice top to her and a clean body.

Aroma is malty, some herbal notes, some possible subtle hop notes but nothing strong and more or less grasping for this maybe. It just looks and smells delicious at this point.

And thankfully the taste lives up to it, and it is a sweet tasting, malty, slightly bready, herbal beer. Great for this time of year. This is a fantastic bonfire sipping beer right here. Great Oktoberfest quality style beer, with the spice and herbal notes to really bring out the various malts and deliver a fantastic brew.

My Untappd Rating: ***.75
Global Untappd Rating: 3.75 (as of 9.8.19)

And, as the book in the background gives testament, the Bengals settle for a field goal and make it 21-20 with 7:46 left in the game. Giving the ball back to Seattle and Russell Wilson in Seattle with 7:46 left to go, down only by 1 point. (This screams typical Bengals…. I made sure to check Marvin Lewis wasn’t still there.)

Troegs has really gotten gung-ho about krausened and krausening and doing open fermentation. They have done several scratch dunkels (and I believe a wheat or two) using this process, and the DreamWeaver is done with this process now. Krausening means doing end of fermentation additions of fresh wort and yeast, something that is typically not done. Troegs does this in the old German style with open fermentation, making it easier to add late additions like this, and to give it other qualities that differentiate it from normal (closed) fermentation.

Beer: Scratch 385 Krausened Dunkel Lager
Brewery: Troegs Independent Craft Brewery
Style: Lager – Munich Dunkel
ABV: 5.4%
IBU: No IBU
Untappd Write-Up: Our new Dunkel Lager walks the line between two of our favorites here at Tröegs: Sunshine Pils and Troegenator. On a recent trip to Germany, we fell in love all over again with this classic dark lager. Our take explores the additions of open fermentation, a technique we use for DreamWeaver Wheat, and krausening. Krausening is the process of adding wort and fresh yeast toward the end of fermentation. The combination of techniques adds subtle fruity esters and a soft, bready mouthfeel.

We taste: bread crust-like maltiness with subtle notes of caramel, nuttiness and chocolate.

There is a notable difference between open fermentation and closed. You get added variables that aren’t in play when its closed and everything is under lid, lock, and key. Brewers must also be a lot more careful with open fermentation due to an increased chase of contamination and other things obviously falling in. It would be interesting to have this recipe done regularly, closed fermentation, and then done in open, to compare the two. Likewise with the krausening, try it as the regular recipe, and then with the late fermentation additions of fresh wort and yeast. For comparison’s sake. For Science!

Appearance for this is very similar to the Fest Lager, but a bit lighter, but not by a massive amount, just a shade or two. Has a nice caramel color to it.

Aroma is malty again, with a bit of roasty malt, not too much, but just a bit, which I thought was a bit odd since this is lighter in color than the Fest Lager which you would think would have more of the roast malts then. Perhaps something to do with the krausening or open fermentation, or maybe my sniffer isn’t working too well (or due to just drinking tasters rather than whole drafts).

This has a very nice, gentle, smooth, subdued taste to it. Nothing punching you in the face, nothing taking your breath away, but just a nice, subtle, beer. No astringency, no off flavors, mellow, smooth, crisp, tasty, and like the Fest Lager another great fall, bonfire, late night sipper while hanging out with buds and roasting marshmellows with kids.

My Untappd Rating: ***.75
Global Untappd Rating: 3.76 (as of 9.8.19)

Another Guava beer, they are popping up everywhere it seems. That makes four or five of them I’ve had in recently history. So I’m coming to grips with it, and I think done subtly, and small, its done well, too much, and its too overpowering.

And the final has just come in, Bengals lose 21-20 to Seattle. Not a bad opening game really. In Seattle, I had Bengals losing by at least a touchdown, possibly by 10 or more. So this is really not a bad start to the season, considering the number of players out (like AJ Green). John Ross III really stepped up and played great, and Dalton actually looked promising (for once).

Beer: Scratch 386 – Tangerine Passionfruit Guava Tart Ale
Brewery: Troegs Independent Craft Brewery
Style: Sour – Fruited
ABV: 4.8%
IBU: No IBU
Untappd Write-Up: Scratch #386 is our latest soft and rounded tart beer, this time with a bold combination of tangerine, passionfruit and guava. The citrus and tropical notes of the fruit are propped up by a rich backbone of oats and honey malt. A first fermentation with lactobacillus adds tartness, and a second pass with Hornindal Kveik yeast adds subtle notes of pineapple. We taste: citrus zest, marmalade, tart pineapple

Once again another new theme of Troegs scratch beers popping up – hornindal kveik yeast. They’ve been toying around and playing with this yeast strain for a bit of a while now, in all kinds of ways, with all kinds of different styles. I believe this is their first time trying it out with a sour.

Appearance is exactly what you would expect from a sour with passionfruit, tangerine, and guava. Its a light, orange, to pinkish hue, similar to some children’s fruit juices. Like a Capri Sun or something similar. There is a slight fizzyness with this as well.

Aroma is like a refreshing breeze. There is the notes of tangerine, citrus, passionfruit, guava, possibly orange juice like smell to the concoction. Its refreshing, gentle, and light, just like the beer itself.

And taste is just right there too, refreshing, gentle, soft, light. You get up front notes of citrus and guava in equal measures that then fades back and fades into the notes of the tangerine, the passionfruit, and the tartness starts to take over. This has just a relaxing vibe to it, with an easy going, soft mouthfeel and nothing clingy or off putting, and leaves you with a nice citrus, tart, fizzy, taste that lingers in your mouth and on your tongue.

My Untappd Rating: ****
Global Untappd Rating: 3.8 (as of 9.8.19)

Well the Bengals might have lost, but the road to 0 and 16 began there and that first round draft pick looks closer and closer to a reality. Just have to pray for a Dolphins win I suppose.

Here’s to great beers and an interesting NFL season this year. Cheers!

-B. Kline