By Mademoiselle Wanderlust, Markets Media Life Correspondent

First off, Oktoberfest actually starts in September (Sept 20-October 5, officially). It is the largest funfair in the world hosted in Munich, Bavaria, Germany. The event lasts for 16 days with over 6 million people trekking from all around the globe to attend this event every year. Amongst the locals, it is simply known as Wiesn after the colloquial fairgrounds Theresienwiese.

If you’re unable to schlep across the Atlantic, we suggest checking out the below NYC joints for this beer-chugging, meat grilling, spicy mustard filled holiday. There will certainly be no shortage of overflowing brews, communal tables, live German music and endless sausages.

Spritzenhaus
This behemoth beer bar offers 6,000 sf of space and a spacious bar for easy ordering of a wide variety of both their American and German beer selections. They have 25 beers on tap and should you get a chill, a fireplace to cozy up to.

Located at 33 Nassau Ave (Greenpoint, Brooklyn)

Reichenbach Hall
This gem founded by two grandsons of German immigrants believe in the philosophy that everyday should feel like Oktoberfest. As you can imagine, as Oktoberfest arrives, the action is severely ramped up. They have 14 beers on tap and is know to be one of the largest beer halls in Manhattan at 5,000 sf.

Located at 5 West 37th St

Bierhaus
Stop in this mid-town joint for your choice from over 20 different types of German brews. Weekend beer brunches are $15.95

Located at 712 Third Avenue

Biergarten at The Standard
A personal favorite of mine any time of the year, this indoor/outdoor location under the highline located in the Meatpacking district is a sight to see during Oktoberfest. The rowdy tables are simply, even more rowdy.

Located at 848 Washington Street

Rolf’s
This place is well known throughout the year for their over-the-top celebrations of Oktoberfest and Christmas. I have attended their Christmas celebration and it’s as though Santa Clause threw up in there. I mean that in the nicest way possible as this place is decorated with more lights, tinsel and ornaments than the eye can see. Don’t miss out on their wonderful selection of German brews this month.

Located at 281 Third Avenue

Some German foods to keep in mind:

Hendl (roast chicken), Schweinebraten (roast pork), Schweinshaxe (grilled ham hock), Steckerlfisch (grilled fish on a stick), Würstl (sausages) along with Brezen (pretzel), Knödel (potato or bread dumplings), Käsespätzle (cheese noodles), Reiberdatschi (potato pancakes), Sauerkraut or Rotkohl/Blaukraut (red cabbage) along with such Bavarian delicacies as Obatzda (a spiced cheese-butter spread) and Weisswurst (a white sausage).

You can see, there are many options to choose from, whatever your heart fancies this Sept/Oct. Drink up. PROST! (Cheers)

Featured image via Flickr/Ankit Bhageria Under creative commons