Round Trip Brewing is hosting their annual Oktoberfest celebration at the West Midtown taproom this weekend, transforming it into a lively Bavarian beer hall. Entry is free with no tickets required—just show up! Lederhosen and dirndls are encouraged but optional. The event features special beer releases, traditional German food, games, contests, and pop-ups. A portion of proceeds from Oktoberfest Märzen sales ($1 per pour) supports LifeLine Animal Project. They’ve also partnered with Cirque du Soleil LUZIA to award prize tickets to contest winners (the show opens November 6 at Atlantic Station, with up to 20% off select performances available via their link).

Here’s a detailed breakdown of activities, beers, food, and promotions, organized by category with day-specific timings where applicable:

Beers and Special Releases

• Oktoberfest Märzen: Their flagship traditional Märzen-style lager, brewed with German malts, Magnum and Tettnang hops, and lagered for at least six weeks. Features moderately toasted bread flavors, smooth sweetness, and an easy-drinking profile. Available on tap, in liter pours, and in six-packs to-go (cans).
• Oak-Aged Oktoberfest: A limited unfiltered variant of the Märzen, aged on oak spirals for subtle vanilla and toasted wood notes that enhance the malt backbone. Available on tap and in six-packs to-go (cans).
• Firkin Tapping: Special unfiltered Oktoberfest Märzen infused with Munich Honey. Ceremonial tapping at 3 PM on Saturday, September 27, to kick off the day’s festivities.
• Maßkrug Mugs (Liter Steins): Full 1-liter pours available on most beers (Oktoberfest recommended). Pricing: $25 for a 1L stein + lager pour; $15 for the 1L stein alone. Take the stein home as a keepsake.
• To-Go Promotion: Free 0.5L stein with the purchase of any case of beer to-go. This runs from September 26 through October 5.

Food and Dining

• Traditional German Fare: Brats, pretzels, and other Oktoberfest-inspired food items provided by a pop-up from their East Cobb Kitchen. Available throughout the weekend.
• Beer Hall Experience: The taproom is set up as a Bavarian beer hall with beer delivery service to tables, enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Contests and Games

• Stein Holding Competition: Annual contest with men’s and women’s heats at 4 PM on Saturday, September 27. No pre-registration needed—just purchase a 1L pour to participate. Winners receive a pair of tickets to Cirque du Soleil LUZIA.
• Small Dog Time Trials: Races for dogs 20 lbs and under at 1:30 PM on Sunday, September 28. Arrive around 1 PM to sign up. The winning dog gets a pair of Cirque du Soleil LUZIA tickets for their humans.
• Dog Costume Contest (by LifeLine Animal Project): Open to dogs of any size, showcasing adoptable pups. Takes place around 2:30 PM on Sunday, September 28, right after the Small Dog Time Trials. The winner receives a pair of Cirque du Soleil LUZIA tickets for their human.

Pop-Ups and Additional Activities

• Candle Making Pop-Up (The Heart Scent): On-demand candle-making class where you bring your own vessel (e.g., a stein) and create a custom candle on the spot. Available throughout the weekend.
• LifeLine Animal Project Support: In addition to the costume contest and donation from beer sales, they’re highlighting adoptable dogs to promote the organization.