This time of year always causes me to reminisce about my one visit to Munich, Germany, for Oktoberfest. A great destination to visit any time of the year, the buzz and energy surrounding the annual celebration can’t be compared. Attracting visitors from the world, it’s the place to meet interesting people, and the camaraderie is instant as you enjoy beer, food, songs and more together, all while reveling in a uniquely authentic German experience. Unfortunately, it’s not possible for me to experience the festival year after year, but many cities around the globe try to get in on the spirit with their own twists on Oktoberfest celebrations. There’s a few going on in my home city of Philadelphia this weekend, including Lo Speido Oktoberfest, a Chef Marc Vetri German celebration at the Navy Yard; a Frankford Hall Oktoberfest at Stephen Starr’s city interpretation of a German beer hall, extra-large beers included; and a Saturday celebration at Brauhaus Schmitz, complete with German beer, a pig roast and live music. That’s just a small sampling of the local Oktoberfest celebrations; fall kicks off festival season, and there’s so many unique upcoming events I can’t wait to enjoy over the next few months — the biggest event in Philadelphia happening next week as Pope Francis visits the City of Brotherly Love. As the leaves turn color and the weather brisker, it’s a great time to savor those last few weeks of perfectly crisp outdoor weather. Check out your city’s tourism board for a listing of local Oktoberfest and fall celebrations and enjoy! — Kim Krol, managing editor