Beer, sauerkraut and maybe that blonde girl in a dirndl will bring you more beer. It's nearing the end of September, which means it's time for Oktober. Oktoberfest, that is. UAF's pub and Silver Gulch Brewery have some fun late-September Oktoberfest activities going on.

The Pub:

Thursday, Sept. 20, head to The Pub for a night of music, food and specialty Oktoberfest beers. Alaska Blaskapelle from Anchorage will provide the music, and thanks to Germany, brats, sauerkraut and German potato salad will be served. If you're not much of a polka dancer, maybe one of the many special Oktoberfest beers from Silver Gulch, Paulaner or Leavenworthwiez will give you all the right moves.

Silver Gulch Brewing and Bottling Co.:

Silver Gulch is hosting more than one night of beer-induced revelry. Wednesday, Sept. 19, the Gulch is having a Brewmaster's dinner with five courses of gourmet German-style cuisine, and, of course, specialty beers. Alaska Blaskapelle will provide the music there as well. Friday and Saturday will be the ninth annual Oktoberfest celebration at Silver Gulch, in newly-renovated facilities.

Fun Oktoberfest Facts:

-The official Oktoberfest, as seen in the movie "Beerfest," takes place in Munich, Germany. It is the 16 days leading up to the first Sunday in October, unless that Sunday is before the third (German Unity Day).

-The first Oktoberfest was held in 1810 to commemorate the marriage of Prince Ludwig (who later became King Ludwig I) to Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. Try saying that 10 times fast.

-The first Oktoberfest was held in the middle of October, but since the weather at the end of September is much more pleasant, the festival was moved back.

-Oktoberfest has been canceled 24 times due to disease, war and other emergencies.