‘Nein’ great Phoenix-area spots to celebrate Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is here! This traditional German autumn festival features beer-drinking and merrymaking, what could be more fun than that? Here are “nein” — get it?– places around the Valley you can join in on the Bavarian celebration.

Haus Murphy

An authentic German restaurant in the heart of historic downtown Glendale? Yup. This popular neighborhood gem has been a hot spot for over 18 years. The vast menu offers authentic traditional Bavarian dishes and countless German beers to choose from. Don’t miss the giant pretzel — imported straight from Germany — as you listen to live music on select dates throughout October.

Brat Haus

This Old Town Scottsdale beer garden can be enjoyed year-round. An inviting environment awaits with picnic tables and even an Oompah band on select nights that will surely transform you straight to Munich. A variety of sausages and brats fill the menu as well as some traditional German favorites, such as pork schnitzel and apple strudel. Don’t miss their beer flights! It’s a fun way to sample a few of the 28 craft beers on tap!

Old Heildburg German Bakery

Who hasn’t seen the big pretzel sign off Indian School Road and wondered what lies inside? Head on in and pick out some German pastries, pretzels, pretzel croissants or bread. They also sell hard-to-find chocolates, candies and other products imported from Germany.

Pedal Haus

Pedal Haus held their grand opening event in Tempe on Sept. 25. The European-inspired brewery will feature plenty of Oktoberfest-related fun.

Schreiner’s Fine Sausage

Specializing in high-quality handmade sausages, Schreiner’s has over 60 variety of sausages to choose from! Be adventurous and pick out a few and head home to create an Oktoberfest of your very own. German beers are out on display at most markets so download the “Chicken Dance” and celebrate!

San Tan Oktoberfest

This is not a German restaurant, but they are celebrating Oktoberfest in a BIG way. On Saturday, Oct. 3,  from 3-11 p.m., San Tan Brewery will transform downtown Chandler into its very own beer garden offering live music, traditional foods, beer games, a Von Hanson’s brat eating contest, and even a family zone. Get ready for a day of beer, brats and bands

Bavarian Point Restaurant

The vast menu offers mouthwatering classic German dishes that will have your taste buds saying “danke!” (thank you!) The old-world setting is the perfect place to try dishes like the jagerschnitzel or schweinebraten for an authentic German experience in downtown Mesa.

Arizona Center For Germanic Cultures Old World Oktoberfest

On Oct. 3 from noon-9 p.m., Peoria will be celebrating Germany’s heritage and culture. Enjoy Alpine-horn blowing competitions, stein holding competitions as well as traditional music and dancing. Indulge in traditional German foods as you browse the many German products on sale.

Four Peaks Oktoberfest at Tempe Town Lake

The Valley’s biggest Oktoberfest party is back again for another year Oct. 9-11. Don’t miss out on the “best music lineup ever,” beer and wine gardens, giant carnival and, most importantly, the wiener dog run! Admission is free and this is sure to be an Oktoberfest you won’t forget.

Follow @wsweaz