Oktoberfest has been held every year in Munich, Germany for almost 200 years. The first fest was not really a festival, but a celebration of the wedding of Crown Prince Luitpold I and Princess Theressa of Bavaria on October17, 1810. Like many modern-day events, the highlight was beer and food—in this case wurst (sausages). These days, an astonishing ten million pints of beer and more than ¾ million sausages are consumed annually at this festival.

Stop by this month and check out our great Oktoberfest selections. From authentic German sausages to new and unique varieties, plus traditional sauerkraut and a very fine lineup of German beers. We’ve got the “best wurst” in town to celebrate the flavors of Oktoberfest!

“The Original Brat Hans” Authentic German Sausages

From Bratwurst to Weisswurst, Knackwurst to Wieners, this is indeed a line of truly authentic German sausages. Created by lifetime sausage maker—butcher Hans from Germany—they are made in small batches to assure the highest quality and consistency.

Hans came from Germany to the U.S. in 1987 and his first job was as a meat cutter at Whole Foods Market. A few years later, he left to start his own business creating sausages. We were sad to see him go, but excited about offering his all-natural sausages in our stores. Then, in 2007 he began crafting a line of authentic German sausages exclusively for Whole Foods Market.

These sausages contain no added nitrates or nitrites, MSG, sugar, fillers or artificial colors or flavors. Just all-natural, quality ingredients with the pure flavors you expect at Whole Foods Market. In fact, they are made exclusively for us from pigs raised on vegetarian feed without antibiotics…you can’t find them anywhere else! Ready, set, toss ‘em on the grill, or try in our Oktoberfest recipes.

A Guide to the Sausages of Oktoberfest

Bratwurst is considered the original German sausage. It has a smooth texture and mild flavor which makes it perfect with Sauerkraut.

Weisswurst (literally: White Sausage) is the official sausage of the Oktoberfest in Munich. Enjoy with Bavarian Pretzel and sweet German Mustard.

Named after the German settling town of Sheboygan, Wisconsin. This sausage has a coarse texture and a mild flavor. Great with Kraut!

Around 1800, a butcher from Frankfurt moved to Vienna making this sausage, the Frankfurter, with a snappy, crunchy bite!

Knockwurst sausages are traditionally sautéed in vegetable oil until crispy. When you cut into it, you will hear a sound that resembles a “knock.”