There are a lot of reasons in October to hit the road and see what Michigan has to offer.
Fall colors. Football games. Cider mills.
But here’s one of the best reasons we can think of: October is beer season in Michigan.
Nearly every region of Michigan hosts an Oktoberfest celebration of German beer and culture this month. Here are some recommendations.
Muskegon Oktoberfest
Oct. 4
Head up north for a taste of Bavaria on the lighted trails of the 400-acre Muskegon Sports Complex.
Bring the kids from noon to 4 p.m. for a hike on the Hansel and Gretal Taste Trail, a pebbled trek through the forest where along the way you’ll find games, Bavarian desserts and other treats.
Or stay later for official Muskegon Oktoberfest Taste of the Trail from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy live music and sample both Michigan and German foods, beers and wines along a lighted, wooded trail.
Ticket prices vary per event. The Hansel and Gretal Taste Trail is $5 per person, and the Muskegon Oktoberfest Taste of the Trail is $10 in advance or $15 at the door.
Tickets are available online at muskegonoktoberfest.com
Old Town Oktoberfest
Oct. 10-11
You don’t have to go far to experience an authentic German-style Oktoberfest.
The 8th annual Old Town Oktoberfest is an annual celebration of beer, music and food in the heart of Lansing’s eclectic Turner Street neighborhood.
A $20 ticket gets you into the beer tent both days, as well as a souvenir beer mug and three tickets for food or drink.
Take note: This event is only for those 21 and over. No children or pets.
You can buy tickets and get more information at oldtownoktoberfest.com
Ludington Craft Beer Music Festival
Oct. 10-12
One of the first things we noticed about Ludington’s Octoberfest is the Sunday events are described as “meat-centric.”
Now, we’re not entirely sure what that means. But meat and beer are always a good combination, so it’s probably worth checking out this festival for that reason alone.
Sponsored by Bell’s Brewery, the festival features live music, a bike race, a chili tasting and ample samples of Bell’s best.
Tickets are $20 for two people, and they include two drink tokens. There are also VIP tickets available for $40 per person. Those include a souvenir Bell’s beer stein, admission to an event called “Friday Evening Beer School,” and two drink tokens.
Tickets are available online at downtownludington.com/octoberfest.
(OK, we checked on what meat-centric means. And it means meat. A lot of barbequed meat. Which is awesome.)