Am I the only one who gets confused by the name Oktoberfest? Every year I seem to forget that Munich’s 16-day festival kicks off at the end of September—not the beginning of October. Needless to say, I’ve never made it to Germany to clink beer mugs with the six million or so patrons of Oktoberfest, or “die Wiesn” as the locals call it. Luckily, there are plenty of Oktoberfest celebrations throughout the United States that are worthy of wearing your lederhosen.

Photo: Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber

Addison Oktoberfest
More than 60,000 people are expected to join the party on Sept. 17 through 20 for Oktoberfest in Addison, Texas. Experience a German car show, go on a pretzel hunt, indulge in German wine and beer, shop at the vendor booths and ride carnival rides.

For more information, visit www.addisontexas.net/events/Oktoberfest/

Oktoberfest in Irondequoit, N.Y.
Irondequoit, N.Y., is hosting its 22nd annual Oktoberfest on the weekends of Sept. 18 through 20 and Sept. 25 through 27. Stroll past master yodelers, listen to German music and munch on tasty bratwurst.

For more information, visit www.irondequoit.org/oktoberfest2007

Oktoberfest Denver
Oktoberfest on Larimer Street in Denver, Colo., is one of the largest of its kind in the United States. Forty years in the making, Oktoberfest Denver honors German heritage with authentic cuisine, an accordion concert, attractions, the Long Dog Derby (a dachshund race), music and much more. Check it out on Sept. 18 through 20 and Sept. 25 through 27.

For more information, visit www.oktoberfestdenver.com

Photo: Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber

Oktoberfest Zinzinnati
Cincinnati, Ohio, is home to the largest Oktoberfest celebration in the United States. More than 500,000 hops-loving attendees are present each year. The festival starts Sept. 19 with a keg tapping at each tent and continues on through Sept. 20.

For more information, visit www.oktoberfestzinzinnati.com

L.A. Oktoberfest
Sample traditional German food, sip on (or chug) beer and enjoy Bavarian bands playing old-time tunes at Los Angeles’ first-ever Oktoberfest on Oct. 10. Downtown L.A. will be filled with entertainment that includes the Aerial Showgirls, a polka band and Bavarian dancers, music by The Alemannia Music Foundation, a stein-holding contest and a beer pong tournament.

For more information, visit www.laoktoberfest.com

These are just five of the many Oktoberfest celebrations occuring throughout the United States. Tell us about some of the Oktoberfest festivities in your area.