If the Germans can jump the calendar gun and start Oktoberfest in September, so can we. The Gordon Biersch brewery and restaurant just released its fall seasonal menu and limited edition FestBier lager week. Through Oct. 21, Gordon Biersch will offer special items like German pretzels with beer mustards and a ‘FestBier combo’ of grilled bratwurst, knackwurst, Hungarian sausages, garlic fries and a soft pretzel. Eight fall-inspired entrees include German sausage platter, German Kobe beef burger and braised beef short ribs.

Gordon Biersch’s FestBier, an amber lager, pays homage to the flavors of Oktoberfest. The brew has a slightly sweet toasted maltiness and spicy German Hersbrucker hops. FestBier is available for a limited time during the seasonal celebration.

Also getting an early start on the celebration is the Faultline Brewing Company in Sunnyvale, whose Oktoberfest started this week and lasts until Oct. 26. The activities include bands ThursdaySaturday, a variety of German dishes and brews and the all-important stein-holding contest. Another Oktoberfest opportunity can be had at Naglee Park Garage in San Jose, with a German menu starting Tuesday, and theme music Oct. 4-6.