Unfortunately, Oktoberfest 2020 was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While any plans to visit Germany to take part in the festivities will need to be put on hold until at least 2021, why not celebrate Oktoberfest from home?

Here’s how you can host your very own Oktoberfest without having to travel to Munich. 

Set your menu 

When you think about Oktoberfest, the first thing that probably comes to mind is giant pretzels, extra-large beer steins and traditional Bavarian sausage called weisswurst—all things you can easily recreate at home. 

If you’re feeling up to the challenge, you can make your own pretzels and grind your own sausage (but don’t feel guilty about picking up premade options at the store). Boil the weisswurst and serve it with a pinch of salt and a side of sweet mustard. 

Oktoberfest-style beers can create an authentic experience at home and are pretty easy to find in the fall. If you’re not a fan, a Hefeweizen style beer is another great option (just be sure to serve it in a special Hefeweizen glass!). For non-alcoholic beverages, try lemonade or Spezi—a combination of cola and orange lemonade. 

Traditional Oktoberfest dishes aren’t known for being “healthy,” but when you’re making them at home, you have the power to make any swaps you want! If you’re looking for ways to make your at-home Oktoberfest a little healthier, check out our guide. 

Create your playlist 

Singing and dancing is a huge part of the Oktoberfest experience. And while a live band would be the best option, that’s probably not realistic. You can still create your own playlist to sing along to. 

Traditionally, music at Oktoberfest is a blend of folk music and more modern sing-along songs. But when you’re creating your own playlist, you have the power to control the tunes. 

An Oktoberfest staple is Ein Prosit der Gemütlichkeit. When it plays in the tents, everyone stands and sings along (and then chugs their beer—but feel free to skip this part!).

Define a dress code 

Go all out by implementing a dress code for guests (even if it’s just your household). 

Women at Oktoberfest wear a “Dirndl,” a traditional dress that indicates whether the woman is single or in a relationship based on how the ribbon is tied. Men wear traditional leather pants called “Lederhose.” 

This is your opportunity to make Oktoberfest your own, so don’t worry too much about sticking to tradition. The main purpose of Oktoberfest is to have fun!