The long-awaited Oktoberfest season officially is here. Many bars, restaurants and retailers promote fall offerings starting in September to get a jump on consumer excitement for fall flavors like pumpkin spice, maple, cinnamon, ginger and apple cider.
Fall also is a prime season for many outdoor street festivals featuring music, food, dancing and, yes, beer. To inspire trial and tasting, many beer companies sponsor fall Oktoberfest events that feature their beers and logos on signage, plastic steins, T-shirts and more.