Renazzenfest: An Italian Maerzenbier Celebrating Oktoberfest Roots

The Maerzen/Oktoberfest style is synonymous with Bavarian cheer, but Renazzenfest reminds us of a surprising twist: the oldest Munich brewery was founded by Italian monks. This beer brings the classic Maerzen profile — a full-bodied, amber-golden lager — back to its Italian connection with warm honey notes, a subtle ripe-fig fruitiness, and a soft, noble bitterness.

What is Theresienwiese?

Theresienwiese is the large fairground in Munich where Oktoberfest takes place each year. It’s an open field of tents, stages, food stalls and amusement rides; the name means "Theresa’s Meadow," named for Princess Therese after the original 1810 celebration. The atmosphere is communal and loud — long wooden tables, brass music, and the ritual tapping of the first keg: "O'zapft is!"

Oktoberfest facts

• Origin: The first Oktoberfest was held in 1810 to celebrate the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen.
• Timing: Modern Oktoberfest typically starts in late September and runs into the first weekend of October, to take advantage of milder weather.
• Beer style: Maerzen (Märzen) is the traditional Oktoberfest beer — lagered, malt-forward, with a richer body and deeper color than a Helles.
• Serving: Beers are usually served in one-liter Maß mugs inside large tents, often alongside hearty Bavarian food.
• Scale: Oktoberfest is one of the world’s largest folk festivals, drawing millions of visitors each year.

Oktoberfest traditions

The festival mixes formal ceremony with popular customs. Expect:

• The ceremonial keg tapping by the mayor of Munich, followed by the shout "O'zapft is!"
• Traditional dress: lederhosen for men and dirndls for women.
• Lively brass bands and parades showcasing regional clubs, breweries, and floats.
• Shared long tables where strangers toast and sing together — community is at the heart of the event.
• Hearty pairings: roast pork, sausages, pretzels, sauerkraut, and sweet baked goods.

What is a Volksfest?

A Volksfest is a traditional German folk festival combining fairground attractions, food, music, and often a beer tent. Oktoberfest is the largest and most famous Volksfest, but many towns host their own local Volksfests throughout the year. These events focus on local culture and conviviality — the kind of popular spirit that inspired the creation of Renazzenfest to celebrate a shared Italian–Bavarian heritage.

How is Oktoberfest celebrated (and how you can celebrate at home)

In Munich, celebration begins with the mayor tapping the first keg and continues with music, dancing, parades, and endless toasts. If you can’t make it to Theresienwiese, you can recreate the feel at home with a few simple steps:

• Set up long, communal-style seating and a playlist of brass band favorites and folk songs.
• Serve generous portions of Bavarian-style food: pretzels, sausages, roast meats, and hearty sides.
• Offer a Märzen-style beer that’s malty and slightly stronger than a Helles — look for golden-amber color, honey and dried-fruit notes, and a rounded, soft bitterness.

For an authentic Italian spin on the Oktoberfest Maerzen experience, try

as the centerpiece of your celebration — it captures the honeyed warmth and ripe-fruit character that make Maerzen so comforting, while honoring the style’s historical roots.

Tasting notes and food pairings

Expect a nose of honey and light dried fruits, a fuller mouthfeel than a summer lager, and a gentle bitterness that cleanses the palate.

Suggested pairings:

• Roast pork or pork knuckle — the beer’s malt body stands up to rich meat.
• Smoked sausages and sauerkraut — classic, salty, and satisfying.
• Mature cheeses and honey-drizzled bread — to echo the beer’s honeyed notes and subtle fruit.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re exploring Oktoberfest history, planning a Volksfest-style party, or simply searching for a deeper, malt-forward lager to enjoy with friends, the Maerzen tradition delivers warmth and conviviality. Renazzenfest is a proud, Italian-inflected take on that tradition — perfect for raising a glass to shared roots and great company.