Nobody does autumn festivals like the Germans. Originally a royal wedding bash in Munich in 1810, Oktoberfest is now considered by some to be the largest people's fair in the world.
Oktoberfest was linked to agriculture shortly after it was established. However, the party is now better known for the copious amounts of beer revelers enjoy.
Some Japanese establishments celebrate Oktoberfest at different times of the year, but two events — the Akarenga Oktoberfest in Yokohama and RAN magazine's Oktoberfest in Nagoya — are at least being held in the correct month.
Yokohama Akarenga Oktoberfest is in its eighth year and aims to run as close as possible to the original event in Germany, which is 17 days long.
Nagoya-based RAN magazine will team up with French chef Denis Salmon and Mano Fatto to bring the event to Aichi Prefecture, heralding its first Oktoberfest.
Both events will have something for everyone: food, live music and, well, mostly beer.
Yokohama Akarenga Oktoberfest runs till Oct. 17. Admission costs ¥200. For more information, visit www.yokohama-akarenga.jp/ oktoberfest2010. Nagoya Oktoberfest 2010 takes place on Oct. 17 at Shonai Ryokuchi Koen from 11 a.m. till 8 p.m. To sign up for a spot, visit www.manofatto.com/oktoberfest.