Prost!

With the days shortening, weather changing and leaves falling, fall is a season for reflection and taking stock. With the exception of October, which is a time for taking that stock and drinking it.

Grab a bootfull at D.C. area Oktoberfests (Photo: Think Geek)

Though far from lederhosen country, D.C. will overfloweth with Oktoberfestivities this week and next, so grab your stein and join the cele-BRAT-ion at these fun events.

Oktoberfest Reston

Wet your whistle with Virginia Brews at Oktoberfest Reston (Photo: Oktoberfest Reston)

Held Oct. 11-13 at the Reston Town Center in Northern Virginia, Oktoberfest Reston promises to be an all-ages event with carnival, band, DJs, a 5k run and of course beer showcases featuring local Virginia breweries like Devils Backbone and James River Brewing Co.

Kentlands Oktoberfest

The City of Gaithersburg, Md., will celebrate its 22nd Oktoberfest at the Kentlands, Sunday, Oct. 13 from noon to 5 p.m. This your spot to catch some good old fashioned hopping, skipping and twirling with Bavarian Dancers and authentic, rustic tunes provided by folk acts. Arts and crafts for kids and beer gardens and wine terraces for Mutter and Vater.

 Snallygaster

Union Market hosts Snallygaster beer festival for the discerning guzzler. (Photo: Union Market)

Here is the one I’m really excited about. This successful beerfest known for its rare brews and rousing good time is back again with a new location. Snallygaster 2013 will take place Saturday, Oct. 19 from 1-6 p.m. at Union Market. The event will feature over 75 different seasonal selections like Oktoberfests, Pumpkin Ales and Fresh-Hop Harvest brews as well as the debut of seldom-seen beers from local breweries. The event benefits Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food & Agriculture.