There is no single type of Oktoberfest beer. Only in recent decades has the famous hoolie in Munich settled on a deceptively strong, dangerously easy-drinking blond lager. For more about brewing this modern type of festbier, check out our August-September 2021 issue—out now.
However, from its beginning in 1810 until well into the 20th century, there were a variety of beers available at Oktoberfest—advertisements in old event programs make that clear. Depending on the year, you might find dunkel, helles, export-strength helles, weissbier, or even a pilsner.