In Japan, Oktoberfest tends to be a year-round celebration. Beer companies here will hold the traditional German party whenever they feel like a break. This month (or maybe we should say, this week) it's Yokohama's turn.

Yokohama Oktoberfest, which has been held every year since 2002, hopes to re-create the authentic atmosphere of the Munich-born festival, which is now celebrated worldwide.

The event in Yokohama, which is the birthplace of beer in Japan, will serve some 70 types of the drink, including some German varieties. That will be, of course, in addition to some of the local beers of Kanagawa Prefecture.

For the first time this year, the venue — the historic Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse — will have some expanded space on the second floor to accommodate even more beer-lovers than before.

The all-German Woho Kalandar Band will perform several times throughout the day, and signature German foods such as sauerkraut and sausages will also be available.

The Yokohama Oktoberfest takes place at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse No. 1 building in the Minatomirai area of Yokohama from Oct. 4-20. The hours vary depending on the day. Admission is ¥200 (excluding the costs of food and drink). For details, visit www.minatomirai21.com or www.yokohama-akarenga.jp/oktoberfest2013 (in Japanese).