‘Proust’ to the Costa Rican Oktoberfest
photo © NuShark Media
Second Annual Beer Festival This Weekend – Saturday, October 11th
The Germanic names of Costa Rica’s most popular beers — Pilsen, Imperial — might lead you to believe that these alcoholic beverages hail from outside of the country, but these are homegrown beers. The craft beer industry has been growing rapidly in the country and although the Oktober Festival is a far cry from its Bavarian roots, it has made a name for itself. Gone are the little tents and small gatherings of the past to be replaced by a new venue in San Antonio de Belén.
Fast becoming an October tradition and a way to enjoy a rainy afternoon or two during Green Season, the Oktoberfest is once again scheduled for beer lovers to sample the best craft tipples that the country can offer. With 25 beers to taste, it might be best for you to get a taxi to and from or at least nominate a designated driver for the journey to the Pedregal Event Center.
The festival will be held on Saturday, 11 October, beginning at 11:00 AM and ending at 1:00 AM on Sunday — for those still standing.
The treat for the weekend is a specially brewed beer made specifically for the festival by the Stiefel Pub. There’s only 200 liters of this Oktoberfest exclusive — so get in fast if you want a taste of it!
Whether you are a connoisseur or simply curious, pay the entrance fee of $17, or $28 for a VIP ticket, and enjoy the day with beers comfortably priced at about $4 each. Get there early as 5,000 people are expected to attend the festivities!
