As I mentioned in my post “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” we dig Oktoberfest beer, so when my sister-in-law suggested we check out one local beer garden, we couldn’t refuse. Since the beer garden – or Bier Garten auf Deutsch – is in a park and next to a kid’s playground, we decided to make it a family picnic.
We broke out the big beer glass I bought from Oktoberfest more than ten years ago. Here’s Daddy O. showing his excitement!
At the bier garten, I split a half-liter with my sister-in-law, and Daddy O. opted for a full liter of dark beer. Apparently it is shipped from Hofbrauhaus Munich, and it was quite good. We also shared a big pretzel (complete with three cheese blend spread), bratwurst, quark (type of cheese), fruit, and sandwiches for the kids. It was so fun to dine and drink on a beautiful, autumn day!
After lunch, the kids played on the playground, leaving Daddy O. to finish his liter while sitting on a park bench. A polka band with an amazing tuba player and authentic German beer hall songs made our afternoon outing even more perfect. I think it’s impossible NOT to be happy when you hear a polka (but maybe that’s just me?)!
Initially, we felt a little crazy for bringing our kids to a beer garden, but it really was a lovely day! Living in Wisconsin, adults can bring their underage children to bars, so why not a beer garden too?! Cheers / Prost!
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go mama o. 
I see no issue with kids in beer gardens. In England they have beer gardens with play ground equipment everywhere you go!
Yay! Awesome! It makes the park more fun for adults. I was the responsible one who drove home. Thinking of you my dear!
That looks like such a fun place and what a fantastic day it looks like! I sometimes feel strange about taking the kids anywhere “pub-ish” but if it’s a cute, German-inspired beer garden? I’d be okay with that!
In the UK having a pub lunch with the kids is perfectly acceptable 🙂 Lots of pubs that sell food are family friendly, have family ‘areas’ and play equipment. It’s a relaxed and informal environment, and quite a nice way to spend a Sunday lunch with friends! Your day sounds lovely 🙂
That’s really wonderful! You reminded me of the designated family areas – I noticed that when I visited my friend Amy in England. I think I need to change the title of my post now!
It does sound like a perfect day…and yes you’re right…you can’t help to feel happy when you hear a polka!
I love a good polka – especially at weddings! Thanks Melissa!