Writer: Hailey Evans
Autumn is prime time for beer lovers. Oktoberfest celebrations abound, breweries are rolling out seasonal releases and football fans have a new reason to raise a glass. Whether you’re chasing Märzens, exploring new taprooms or cheering on the Hawkeyes, there’s no shortage of ways to toast the season.
Roll out the barrel
The annual Oktoberfest at the Des Moines Biergarten returns Oct. 17-18, chock full of German bier, bratwursts, pretzels, polkas and familyfriendly activities at Water Works Park (desmoinesbiergarten.com). And if you just can’t wait for the schnitzel and stein-hoisting contests, strap on your lederhosen for an earlier Oktoberfest at The District at Prairie Trail on Sept. 25-26 (oktoberfestdsm.com).
Tap into flavor
As temperatures cool and football season kicks into gear, Iowa taprooms begin swapping summer crushers for richer, more malt-forward pours. Expect Oktoberfest lagers, pumpkin ales, amber ales and other seasonal favorites to headline tap lists throughout September and October. Many breweries also begin rolling out specialty releases ahead of the winter holidays, so be sure to check menus for limited-run brews to try.
One of the season’s biggest newcomers is Tigerhawk, released this summer from Big Grove Brewery in partnership with University of Iowa Athletics. As the new official beer of the Hawkeyes, a portion of every sale supports the school’s sports programs. Big Grove plans to increase its availability statewide both in cans and on drafts now that college football season is here. The crisp lager is perfect for tailgates, watch parties and game days.
Around downtown, local breweries are tapping their annual Oktoberfest releases. Look for seasonal, Germanstyle Märzens at Exile, Confluence and Court Avenue Brewing Co. The malty, toasty autumn staples have become yearly favorites for many local beer enthusiasts. For a taste of Munich, order a Paulaner festbier at Hessen Haus and settle into the festivities.
Court Avenue Brewing Co. is also embracing another fall favorite with the debut of Gourd Trouble, a pumpkin ale designed for drinkers who believe pumpkin spice season should extend beyond the pie plate and coffee cup.
Stamp your passport
Fancy turning a beer run into a full-on road trip? The free Iowa Beer Passport from Travel Iowa encourages travelers to visit more than 70 breweries across the state.
Earn points through brewery check-ins that can be redeemed for drink discounts and other rewards. The passport adds a little extra incentive to support Iowa’s craft beer community. (There are separate passports for Iowa wineries and distilleries, too.) Find details at traveliowa.com.
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