While it may get lost in the shadows of the behemoth that is Oktoberfest, there's another celebration that the Germany beer world takes pretty seriously: Tag des Deutschen Bieres, or German Beer Day. This marks the day the Reinheitsgebot – what most of us probably know as the 'German Purity Law' – came into effect way back in the 1500s, decreeing that beer could only be made with four ingredients; water, malt, hops and yeast.
As a general guide, Reinheitsgebot is pretty solid and has clearly stood the test of time. But, of course, to be a hardcore Reinheitsgebot follower in these days of pastry stouts might make one prone to a pulmonary episode. Nevertheless, the classic styles remain classic for a reason, and that's something to celebrate.
All of which is a very long-winded way of advising that the Euro-focused traditionalists at Brightstar Brewing are celebrating German Beer Day with a Kölsch Night.
The way it'll work is that you head to the brewery on April 19 and find yourself a seat - no need to go to the bar for this one. Brightstar will have Köbes (basically the name they give a beer waiter in the Rhineland) bringing around trays of deliciously fresh kölsch for you to enjoy. You take one off the tray, they add a notch to your coaster, and once you've had your fill at the end of the night, you settle up the tab. Easy.
If you like the full authentic experience, make a point of getting in early as from 6:30-8:30pm the kölsch will be coming around in the traditional elegant stange glasses.
Beyond the beer (and in addition to the usual kitchen offerings) they'll be dishing up a German sausage plate special with wurst, sauerkraut, potato salad, mustard, and a pretzel roll. There'll be kölsch games and for the requisite background vibes you'll have the dulcet tones of piano accordion and alpine bell performers from 6.30-9.30pm.
Book your table here.
