Crooked Hammock Brewery’s inaugural Crooktoberfest runs thru Oct. 9

Crooked Hammock Brewery is bringing a twisted version of Bavaria to its backyard for Crooktoberfest, a 10-day celebration running from Friday, Sept. 30 through Sunday, Oct. 9, at its Lewes and Middletown brewpubs.

The festival shines a spotlight on bier, brats, feats of strength, and all the frivolous fun that makes Crooked Hammock Delaware’s go-to brewery for good times and relaxed vibes. 

The event kicks off at noon, Sept. 30, featuring a German-inspired food menu from Chef Ted Deptula available all day, every day, from 12 to 9 p.m., along with the freshest Märzen beer this side of Munich. 

“The inspiration for Crooktoberfest might have its roots in Germany, but it’s really a nod to how we roll,” said Crooked Hammock owner Rich Garrahan. “We wanted to create an oasis – a crooked one, featuring flashy lederhosen, pretzel necklaces and beer-soaked bratwurst – for our loyal patrons to escape to and enjoy. Whether their staycation lasts only a few hours or for all 10 days is entirely up to them.” 

Crooktoberfest menu items will include a Berlin Burger with gypsy BBQ sauce, muenster cheese, fried onions, bacon, and a pretzel bun; Pretzel Brat with maple mustard, red cabbage slaw, pretzel roll, and honey Dijon potato chips; Spaetzle Special with housemade egg drop pasta, pulled bacon, caramelized onion, and brown butter sauce; Sauerbraten Skewers with red wine-marinated filet, pretzel dumpling, garlic butter, and red cabbage slaw; and Dutch County Charcuterie including cured meats and cheeses from Pennsylvania Dutch legend S. Clyde Weaver – Landjäger, Lebanon bologna, cured beef, aged cheddar, pickles and spreads. 

Patrons can grab a limited-edition Crooktoberfest stein for $15, a keepsake mug that can be refilled for only $4 on every day of the festival. There will also be custom-designed Crooktoberfest T-shirts which get guests $5 off a 4-pack of the festival’s namesake Märzen beer. 

Crooktoberfest 2022 will anoint its very first Festmaster, a well-dressed and loud-speaking ambassador for merrymaking, to ring in the festivities with a toast and preside over a Stein Holding Competition. Prizes and statewide bragging rights will be on the line, backed by the sounds of a boisterous brass band. 

For more information, go to crookedhammockbrewery.com.