Yep, Germany's most famous tradition that doesn't involve invading France is back for the annual Oktoberfest By The Bay at the Fort Mason Center. Having been to the real Oktoberfest in Munich, we can say that the Fort Mason Center definately lacks that Beer Hall milieu, but the beer is definitely plentiful and the Oompah Bands are definitely Oompahing. The festivities start tonight with Gemütlichkeit Night- tickets are $20 and includes admission, souvenir glass, a pint of Spaten, and a bratwurst. For the rest of the weekend, tickets are $12 at the door, bratwurst not included. We are, however, warning you- the Chicken Dance will be played.

For those of you not up for drinking all day with people in lederhosen, several Bay Area restaurants are also featuring specials all weekend. Gordon Biersch is even rolling out a brand new beer for the occasion, the Schwartz (and May the Schwartz be with you! Sorry, we couldn't help ourselves) which is described as having the "light hoppiness of a Pilsner mixed with the dark roasted flavor of a dunkles."

Mmm….dunkles……