It’s really starting to feel like Fall, with these awesome 70s quite a bit colder than last weeks 80-90s. But nothing really screams Autumn quite like OKTOBERFEST! Everything German is Christmas-y to me. I remember going to German Kindl Markets all over Europe when my family and I would travel over the holidays. But Oktoberfest is the first sign that the seasons are changing.

I love Lincoln Square, Chicago’s little Germany, and I think it’s extremely underrated. It’s quiet and adorable and full of nostalgic, European goodies. Where better to find an Oktoberfest?

There was no admission fee, which was awesome, and everything was pretty darn cheap! Compared to GreekFest a couple of weeks ago, this play was a steal; beers and brats were about $6– pretzels were only $3! I loved it. They had two Beer options, PBR for domestic and HB Munchen for import. You could get a giant picture of the Munchen for $13 in a take-home mug, which we did! I’ve never had German beer, since I was a wee bit smaller when I was last in the country, and had no idea how delicious it was. I always found the beers I tried to be over-hoppy, tasting like moldy bread. the HB Munchen was smooth with a nice sourness from the yeast that wasn’t over powering. And when it was ice cold it was perfect under the sunny skies. I finally got it– beer aint’ bad.

It was the first time Max had to share his beer! Thank God refills were only a couple a bucks! We transferred $30 into tickets and had so much left over because the food was so cheap, so we filled up in the golden nectar.

There were all these cute dancers in traditional German garb, from little kiddos to adults. It felt so cheery to listen to the upbeat music and watch adorable children spin around in colorful costumes.

The little games were a nice treat too. We didn’t go for any, but it added to the general festivity of the day.

Check out the deer hoof sticking out of this guy’s pocket? I’d like to think it’s attached to a beer opener or something.

Afterwards we ran to the German grocery up the street, Gene’s European Market, to pick up some of the Munchen, some pre-made pierogies (which were delicious!) and some Milka chocolate.

It was such a lovely day, and we’re considering the neighborhood as a contestant in our decision on where to move next year. Lincoln Square is like a laid back lakeview, with less hustle and bustle, but keeping with the cute, small-town feel.