Boston celebrates Oktoberfest with Jamaica Plain Samuel Adams Boston Brewery

Curtis DeSmith, photo staff

October 7, 2024

The patio of Samuel Adams Boston Brewery is decorated for Oktoberfest with Bavarian pennants and branded banners. The Jamaica Plain brewery hosted a weekend’s worth of festivities for the seasonal celebration. (Curtis DeSmith)

Samuel Adams celebrated the centuries-long German tradition of Oktoberfest with music, games, food and, of course, beer. With the cultural festival beginning mid-September, the Boston beer company spent two weekends offering Oktoberfest deals. The weekend of Sept. 20’s celebration was based in the Downtown Tap Room, and the weekend of Sept. 27’s celebration at the Jamaica Plain Brewery. As New England embraced Bavarian themes, the focus remained on showcasing Samuel Adams’ products to capture the spirit and flavors of the German festival.

Souvenir pints filled with the Samuel Adams Octoberfest Märzen. The plastic cup and drink were free with a purchased ticket to the event. (Curtis DeSmith)

Bar patrons wear Samuel Adams-branded Tirolerhüte hats. The Bavarian-style hats carried feathers, which in the past symbolized great accomplishments among hunters. (Curtis DeSmith)

Upon entering the brewery’s landmark patio, guests received a complimentary drink, setting the tone for a shared and communal experience. As patrons indulged in brews from the bar, friends enjoyed outdoor games like cornhole, accompanied by live musical performances. Other than a Stein Hoist, however, there were no activities to distinguish this Oktoberfest celebration from a typical beer garden event.

A music group performs alternative rock music. The music was enough to entertain the event, however, no musical talent played traditional Bavarian folk music. (Curtis DeSmith)

Visitors enjoy their drinks at the patio bar area. While “The Joy of Painting” played on the bar’s TVs, patrons sat by gaslit fireplaces on outdoor furniture. (Curtis DeSmith)

A flight holding four Samuel Adams brews — Cherry Wheat, Hefeweizen, Jack-O Pumpkin Ale and the Dunkel (left to right). Drinks were served efficiently and lines barely formed at the bar. (Curtis DeSmith)

Guests savored classic Oktoberfest cuisine, including bratwurst, pretzels and a selection of fest-inspired beers. While some traditional elements — such as lederhosen contests, polka music and other carnival games — were absent, Samuel Adams successfully captured the essence of the celebration: quality refreshment and a nod to German heritage.

Bavarian pretzel sticks are served from the Samuel Adams kitchen — an Oktoberfest classic. The food was prepared fresh, which allowed hot snacks to be paired with cold drinks. (Curtis DeSmith)

Competitors participate in the Stein Hoist, an endurance race to hold a liter of beer up for as long as possible. The winner of the Hoist held their arm out for over six minutes. (Curtis DeSmith)

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About the Contributor

Curtis DeSmith, Photo Staff