Founded in 1869, Staropramen is one of the most famous brands of beers in the Czech Republic.

Czechs love beer. Whether it’s the water, hops, or simply that Pilsner was invented here, beer is undeniably central to Czech culture. To help you prepare for a great beer drinking experience in the Czech Republic, here are a few interesting facts about Czech beer.

• Czechs consume more beer than any other country in the world – more than 150 liters, or 320 pints, annually per person. That puts them ahead of Germany and even Belgium.

• Official town records indicate that the first Czech brewery was established in Cerhenice and was opened in 1118 AD.

• The world’s first pilsner-style pale lager was produced in the city of Pilzen in 1842. Today, beer-lovers from all over the world come to Plzen, which has become something of a brewing Mecca.

• Budweiser Bürgerbräu, or Budweiser Bier, was the original Bud, founded in the city of Budweis in 1785. In 1876, the U.S. company Anheuser-Busch borrowed the name for its now famous Budweiser.

• Famous Czech beer brands include Pilsner Urquell, Gambrinus, Velkopopovicky kozel, Radegast, Budvar, and Staropramen. In addition, there are several local and regional brews.

• A Pivnice is a Czech beer hall named after pivo, meaning “beer.”

• The numbers attached to beers in the Czech Republic refer not to alcohol content but to a “degree” figure, which is used by brewers to track the density of certain ingredients. A higher degree figure generally means a fuller flavor and results in a stronger brew.

• Beer in the Czech Republic is generally cheaper than bottled water or soft drinks.

• Since the mid-1990′s many restaurants and pubs have been serving unpasteurized beer, called tankové pivo. The beer is kept in pressurized tanks that steady the temperature. The result yields more complex flavors that are full of hops and spices.

• In Prague, the Prvni Pivni Tramway, or “First Beer Tram”, at the end of the No. 11 line is a tram themed pub.

• The world’s first “beer health center” was started in the town of Chodova Plana. The center offers soothing hot baths containing mineral water and beer. This curative therapy claims to have rejuvenating effects.

• The Czech Beer Festival in Prague is the biggest beer festival in the Czech Republic which is held for 17 days every year in May.

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Hungary will host its first ever craft beer festival from May 13-14th at Mikszáth Kálmán Square in Budapest. The festival’s aim is to showcase the achievements of Hungarian craft-beer, that has been largely overlooked due to Hungary’s primary classification as a wine-country.

From all corners of the country, 10 microbreweries will bring more than 200 barrels of craft-beer to Budapest. Visitors will have a chance to taste Korty, Hungary’s most famous speciality beer, fermented with Tokaji Aszú, usually only on tap in Miskolc and Prague, the 10% strong black beer brewed with blueberry on the southern parts of Alföld, or the Millet-Beer, brewed to double gravity. There will be beer-premiers as well – the premier of Grabanc IPA – the first Hungarian IPA, and Keseru Méz (Bitter Moon), the first Hungarian hop-lager, a substyle just invented to refer to a specially hopped light unfiltered lager.

Special guests from abroad will include the renowned Pivovarsky Dum from Prague, with their festive green beer brewed with nettle, and Slovakia’s No1 craft-brewery, Kaltenecker from Rozsnyó with a rauchbier among others.

Admission is free. For more information about the festival, visit FozdeFeszt (Hungarian Craft Beer Festival).

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Oktoberfest celebrated its 200^th anniversary this year. Here are some photos of the event.

Vistiors walking along the street of Wirtsbudenstrabe, where the beer tents and rides are located.

Women selling giant pretzels outside of a beer tent.

In front of the Löwenbräu beer tent. Löwenbräu means "lion's brew".

Lebkuchen hearts at a market stall. These decorative cookies are meant to be given to a loved one and usually have special messages written on them such as Ich liebe dich" (I love you) and "Du bist mein Liebling" (You are my favorite).

The Hippodrome beer tent, which first opened in 1902. It became the first Oktoberfest beer tent to offer amusement along with food and drink.

A beer carousel which is almost as popular as some of the beer tents. The carousel moves at a nice slow pace with the bar in the center.

Toys given out as prizes. Carnival booths were first introduced into the festival in 1816.

Guys dressed in lederhosen having a good time in front of the Hippodrom beer tent.

Visitors drinking at the Schottenhamel beer tent. This is where the traditional Anstich (ceremonial opening of the first beer barrel of the festival) is performed by the city's mayor.

An older woman enjoying her beer at the Schottenhamel beer tent.

A woman dances with her young daughter at the Schottenhamel beer tent. People of all ages come to the festival.

Roast pork with cucumber potato salad.

White sausages which are a specialty of Munich.

A food vendor preparing steckerlfisch (fish on a stick).

Older couples dancing to traditional Bavarian folk music.

Teenagers wearing traditional Bavarian attire at an equestrian performance.

A brave visitor on a thrill ride.

Bavarian men in traditional attire with alphorns.

Amateur horse racing at the track, which was brought back this year in honor of the 200th anniversary celebrations.

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Oktoberfest is the world's largest fair, with some six million people attending every year. The festival traces its roots back to 1810 when the citizens of Bavaria came together to honor the marriage of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen.

On October 12, 1810, the townspeople of Munich came together to honor the marriage of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen.

The following day, celebrations continued with various activities, including concerts, parties, balls, and even a horse race. It was so spectacular and intense that the royals of Bavaria decided to hold another event a year later. Eventually, it was agreed that Oktoberfest would become an annual event which was prolonged and moved forward into September for better weather conditions.

Oktoberfest is now the world’s largest fair with over six million people attending every year. It consists of 30 different tents across the grounds of Theresienwiese Park, each specializing in different beers, food and music.

This year Oktoberfest will mark 200 years since it first began as a royal wedding celebration. Officially Oktoberfest has only taken place 176 times due to cancellations from wars and conflicts. However, organizers still consider this to be an important year and have arranged for some special activities including extending the festival by a day at opening and closing.

Events include a historic reconstruction of the original festival using an antique Oktoberfest tent and exhibition of historical fun fair attractions. Traditional horse races will be held daily twice a day. The last time a horse race occurred was in 1938, after which it was cancelled for political reasons.

The city of Munich will also host a special tribute of its own. The Oktoberfest-Exhibition at the City Museum of Munich will showcase the history of Oktoberfest from its origins as Bavarian celebration with royal overtones to the world’s largest beer and folk festival from July 9 through the end of October. Approximately 800 artifacts are on display including those that were directly involved in the original festivities at one time or another.

Visitors can also purchase an official 200 year jubilee stein handmade by the company Rastal. It features image of  Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen along with the “Muenchner Kindl” (the coat of arms of Munich). The stein can be purchased from the official Oktoberfest website.

This year’s festivities will run from Friday, September 17th through Monday, October 4th. The official tapping of the first beer barrel will be celebrated on Saturday 18th at noon. Admission to the event is free.

So get ready for two weeks of thigh-slapping-om-pah-pah-merriment!

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Germany has several large and well-known beer festivals. The most popular is the Munich Oktoberfest which is the world’s largest fair attracting over six million people each year.

A visit to Germany is incomplete without going to an authentic German beer festival.

Here are the top 10 beer festivals that will have you saying “Prost!”

10) Hanover Schützenfest

The world’s biggest marksman’s festival is celebrated every year in Hannover. It combines a fair with shooting matches among members of the local marksmen’s association, various rides and inns, and lively entertainment. The highlight of Hanover Schützenfest is the 12 kilometres (7.5 mi) long Parade of the Marksmen which is is the longest parade in Europe if not the world. Of course, there’s also lot’s of beer!

9) Munich’s Frühlingfest

For anyone who wants to get as close as possible to Oktoberfest while traveling Germany without really being there will find that Munich’s Frühlingfest (Spring Festival) is the ideal choice. This beer festival is a miniature version of Oktoberfest even held on the same fair grounds, called the Theresienwiese in Munich. Beer tents, carnival rides, and oompah-music bands playing traditional German songs set the scene for this lively festival.

8 ) Munich’s Starkbierzeit

Munich’s Starkbierzeit also reffered to as “strong beer time” is exactly as the title suggests. Every year in early spring local breweries produce their strongest beers. The festival’s roots go back to the Paulaner monks who, according to legend, began making an extra-strength beer to sustain themselves during their Lenten fast. The festival is an excellent showcase of Bavaria’s distinctive culture and traditions.

7) Kulmbacher Bierfest

Unlike other festivals, the Kulmbacher Bierfest is exclusively dedicated to beer. The town is the proud home of four breweries that each put up a huge pavilion in the town center to sell their special beers. A variety of typical Franconian food is also available.

6) Barthelmarkt

The Barthelmarkt occurs in Manching near Ingolstadt on the last weekend of August. Though first mentioned in 1354, its roots can be traced back as early as to the first century BC, when the Romans established a cattle market in the area. The name “Barthelmarkt” stems from St. Bartholomew, the patron saint of the local church.

5) Gäubodenvolksfest

Founded in 1812 as an agricultural gathering of the people in the Danube region, the Gäubodenvolksfest is a modern and family friendly festival. Beers from the Straubing-Bogen region are served, and on the first day there is a “bierprobe” meaning “tasting of the beer”, with a parade of 2,000 participants in traditional Bavarian costumes and on horse carriages and wagons.  

4) International Berlin Beer Festival

Usually held on the first weekend of August annually, the festival takes place on the Karl-Marx-Allee in Berlin Friedrichshain. The city’s “beer mile” stretches 2.2 km from Frankfurter Tor to Strausberger Platz which organisers claim makes it the world’s longest beer garden. One million visitors attend the International Berlin Beer Festival each year. For anyone seeking to sample a variety of beers will appreciate it’s selection of 2,000 varieties representing 85 countries with a focus on smaller, private breweries.

3) Bremen Freimarkt

First held in 1035, Bremen Freimarkt is the oldest fair in Germany. With more than four million visitors each year, it is also considered to be the biggest festival in Northern Germany. The festival offers a number of beer tents, amusement rides, and entertainment. An annual highlight is the “Freimarktsumzug” (Free Fair Procession) held on the second Saturday of the festival.

2) Cannstatter Volksfest

In terms of size, the Cannstatter Volksfest also known as Stuttgart Beer Festival is second-only to the Oktoberfest in Munich. It began in 1818 as a harvest festival following a famine and has since been taking place at the end of September every year. The fun-filled festival features beer tents, fairground rides, fireworks, a market and much more.

1) Munich’s Oktoberfest

Nothing compares to Munich’s Oktoberfest at least in size and attendance. It is the world’s largest fair with over six million visitors a year. So, if your looking for an excuse to celebrate with beer…this is the place to be!

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The 1st annual event of BeerFest Slovenia will be taking place from June 16th – June 20th in Ljubljana at their Exhibition and convention center.

A wide range of beers from various Slovenian and European breweries will be represented at the festival. In addition, visitors can relax and enjoy live music and entertainment.

In cooperation with the City of Ljubljana, live public viewings of the World Cup in South Africa will be also be available.

Admission to the event is free.

For more information, visit the BeerFest Slovenia website.

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The word "stein" is of German origin and dates back to the 14th century.

Definition of a Beer Stein

A beer stein is a traditional German beer tankard or mug, made of pewter, silver, wood, porcelain, earthenware or glass with a hinged lid and levered thumblift.

The word “stein” is of German origin. The etymology of the word is either from “Stein Krug” (meaning stone jug/mug) or from “Steingut” (meaning stone goods).

History of Steins

The origins of steins date back to the 14th century. As a result of the black plague and several invasions of flies throughout Europe shortly thereafter, Germany established several laws in the early 16th century requiring that all food and beverage containers be covered to protect their contents. By combining a lid, hinge, and thumblift, these “German” containers could easily be opened and closed with one hand. Later, it was discovered that the lids on steins was a great way to prevent the beer from being spilled while engaging in song and dance.

By the 16th century, ornamental beer steins were starting to be produced along the Rhine River. The abundant clay in Germany and river transport started a boom in beer stein art. Colored glazes, hand painting, ceramic art and carved decorations began to adorn the steins, and the personal beer stein soon became the most important status symbol and display piece for many Germans. Steins also began to be made in a variety of materials and sizes.

Today steins are still being manufactured, with antique beer steins being some of the most sought after collectibles on the market. Fancy or simple, steins can be found priced anywhere from a few to several thousands of dollars. An invention out of necessity ended up defining the hobby of drinking beer.

Stein Materials

In the early years, steins were traditionally made from stoneware, a material that proved to be highly resistant to chipping and cracking, as well as being more sanitary. During the 1700′s, other materials were used to make steins such as glass and porcelain. Nowadays, steins can be made from any type of material including sliver, ivory, pewter, wood, or even gold.

Stein Markings

Steins can have lots of different markings etched on them. This can vary from family coat of arms to images depicting nature such as animals or flowers. Some of the most sought after are traditional designs such as brewery emblems, Bavarian motifs such as Neuschwanstein or the Marienplatz Rathaus-Glockenspiel of Munich, and the colorful official annual Oktoberfest souvenir mug featuring the year’s winning poster design.

An authentic German beer stein will always have a Made in Germany label. Some steins may also have the artist’s name or the company’s name that manufactured the stein on them.

Just for Fun!

• The world’s largest beer stein, which can hold a whopping 8.45 gallons of beer, can be found in St. Goar, Germany.
• A Bavarian-born man set a new world record by carrying 20 steins of beer at once for 40 metres.

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The golden beer known as the "pilsner" was first brewed in the Czech Republic during the mid-19th century. Today, the beer is still made according to the original recipe.

There’s no doubt that the Czechs are truly passionate and proud of their beer heritage. In fact, the country leads the world in per capita beer consumption. Beer is served almost everywhere in the country especially in Prague, where there are a countless numbers of pubs and restaurants. So, if you’re wondering what beers to try in the Czech Republic, here’s a list of some of their best beers.

Pilsner Urquell

Pilsner Urquell is the original lager that all others are based upon. This quality beer owes its crisp, hoppy flavor  with a touch of bitterness and smooth finish, to the famous Saatz hops and soft water drawn from 1,000 feet deep artesian wells under the brewery.

Budvar

Budejovicky Budvaris a light lager with 5% volume alcohol content, best known as Budejovicky Budvar in the Czech Republic, Budweiser Budvar in the European Union, Czechvar in the United States and Canada, in the rest of the world either Budweiser Budvar or Budejovický Budvar. The beer matures in cellars for 90 days which gives it a pure, rounded and rich flavor. It has no relation to the American Budweiser.

Staropramen

Brewed in the Smichov district, Staropramen is both a local and international favorite. The beer is made with a special blend of Bohemian barley and Žatec hops. It is distinguished by its crisp and light, fruity flavor. Staropramen is owned by global giant InBev.

Krušovice

The Královský Pivovar Krušovice (the Royal Brewery of Krušovice) is one of the oldest breweries in the Czech Republic. It was originally founded in 1517 by Jií Birka in the village of Krušovice. The brewery gained a contract to provide beer to Emperor Rudolf II in 1581, allowing them to use the Imperial Crown of Austria as part of the company’s logo. One of it’s most famous brands is Krušovice Cerne, a dark lager with a sweet caramel taste and a light hop flavor.

Gambrinus

Gambrinus is one of the most popular beers in the Czech Republic. It was named after the legendary king of Flanders that was known for his mythical brewing abilities. This premium quality beer comes from the same brewery as Pilsner Urquell.

Rebel

Czech Rebel, founded in 1834, is a well-balanced, golden pilsner produced from a small brewery that dates back to 1673 in Luxembourg. The brewery is named after the town of Havlickuv Brod which in turn is named after a famous local Czech writer Karel Havlicek Borovsky (1821-1856), who was fighting against the powerful Habsburg monarchy by writing “revolutionary and rebellious” articles. Hence, the name “Rebel”.

Primator

Primator comes from the brewery town of Nachod where they’ve been perfecting their brewing technique for centuries. It draws its water from the Adršpach-Teplice protected landscape region. In 2006, the brewery launched a reconstruction of their cellar technology including an excess pressure transfer chamber and newly installed yeast farmstead, a promotional station and a classic beer-storage cellar. It is one of the most technically advanced breweries in the country. Primator has a strong, balanced flavour, sparkling gold colour and long-lasting head.

Radegast

Named after the mythical old Slavonic pagan god of fire, sun, harvest and hospitality called Radegast, this brewery has been around since the 1970′s. Stemming from the name for the beer is the slogan: “Život je horký: Bohudík”, a Czech phrase which translates into English as “Life is bitter: Thank God” (in reference to the beer’s “bitter” taste). The brewery is now owned by South African Breweries Ltd (SAB).

Holba

The Holba brewery is based in the picturesque Hanušovice region within the Jeseníky mountains foothills. Currently, the independent brewery is one of the ten largest in the country. It specializes in the production of light beers.

Bernard

On October 26, 1991 Stanislav Bernard, Josef Vávra and Rudolf Šmejkal launched the revival of a Humpolec brewery constructed in the 16th century. Today, the brand is well-known throughout the Czech Republic. It produces traditional unpasteurized light and dark lagers.

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The following is a common list of German food & drink terms.

Basics

Abendessen – Supper
Frühstück – Breakfast
Guten Appetit! – Enjoy the meal!
Ich Bin Satt – I’m Full
Ich habe Hunger – I’m Hungary
Mittagessen – Lunch
Prost! – Cheers!

Dining Out Terms

Gaststätte – Restaurant
Hauptspeisen – Entrées, Main Courses
Kellner – Waiter
Kneipe – Pub
Konditorei – Pastry Shop, Cake Shop
Serviette – Napkin, Serviette
Stimmt So – Keep The Change
Speisekarte – Menu
Zahlen bitte! – The Check, Please!

Cooking Terms

Gebacken – Baked
Gegrillt – Grilled
Gekochte – Boiled
Gutbürgerliche Küche – Traditional Cooking
Roh – Raw
Scharf – Hot, Spicy

Fruit

Apfel – Apple
Banane – Banana
Kirsche – Cherry
Pfirsich – Peach
Trauben – Grape
Wassermelone – Watermelon

Vegetables & Grains

Bohnen – Beans
Chabis/Kraut – Cabbage
Gurke – Cucumber
Karrotten – Carrot
Nuss – Nut
Spargel – Asparagus
Zwiebel – Onion

Meat

Ente – Duck
Lamm – Lamb
Poulet – Chicken
Rind – Beef
Schinken – Ham
Schwein – Pork
Wurst – Sausage

Desserts

Apfelstrudel – Apple Strudel
Doboschtorte – Layered Cream Cake
Eis – Ice Cream
Kuchen – Cake
Schwarzwalder Kirschentorte – Black Forest Cherry Cake

Beer

Bier – Beer
Dunkel – Dark Beer
Flasche – Bottle
Gaerung – Fermentation
Pilsener (or Pils, Pilsner) – Pale Lager Beer
Steinkrug – Beer Mug

Wine

Rotwein – Red Wine
Sekt – Sparkling Wine
Wein – Wine

Non-alcoholic

Apfelsaftschorle – Carbonated Mineral Water &  Apple Juice
Kaffee – Coffee
Milch – Milk
Mineralwasser – Mineral Water
Saft – Juice
Tee – Tea
Wasser – Water

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