Oktoberfest at Long Grove's Buffalo Creek Brewing returns Oct. 1-3

Lake County's destination brewery, Buffalo Creek Brewing, is bringing back its full-scale Oktoberfest celebration, one of the biggest in the Chicago suburbs, Oct. 1-3.

The all ages, family-friendly festival features indoor and outdoor festivities throughout the brewery's two acres of sprawling lawns, biergarten and tented pavilion.

Owner/Brewmeister Mike Marr is hand-crafting a lineup of authentic German-style beers to complement three days dedicated to the German beer culture. "It's as easy as Eins Zwei Drei."

In addition to traditional Oktoberfest music from the brass section of the Lake County Symphony Orchestra, guests can enjoy traditional Oktoberfest contests, including: stein holding, barrel rolling, Hammerschlagen (nail driving), horseshoes, and bags.

To fuel the competitive drive, authentic Oktoberfest foods will be offered as well as Buffalo Creek Brewing's extensive menu of craft beers highlighted by the featured Oktoberfest brew, the Big Ludwigski (a German Märzen with huge amounts of Munich malts, subtle hints of noble hops, and a clean finish).

For the kids and non-drinkers, Buffalo Creek Brewing offers hand-crafted, non-alcoholic choices like freshly made ginger beer.

If all that's not enough or if someone can't make it to Oktoberfest weekend, Mike invites beer lovers to visit the taproom or the newly renovated outdoor spaces anytime for a taste of Buffalo Creek Brewing's exclusive fall specialties.

Visit buffalocreekbrewing.com.