Oktoberfest Beers Compared: Sierra Nevada, Great Lakes, Left Hand
By Chicago's Best Wine & Spirits Store | Published: 2026-11-02
Category: Comparisons
Compare three Oktoberfest 6-packs on price, package and fit. Sierra Nevada, Great Lakes and Left Hand each offer a 12oz can 6-pack for easy fall drinking.
Quick answer
For a straightforward fall gathering, Great Lakes Oktoberfest is the lowest-priced 6-pack of the three at $8.15, while Sierra Nevada and Left Hand cost $8.48 and $8.36. All come in 12oz cans, so choose based on budget and brand familiarity rather than package format.
Price differences that matter for a six-pack
At the listed catalog prices, the gap between the cheapest and most expensive option is 33 cents per 6-pack. That is small per pack, but it adds up if you are buying several packs for a party or keeping the fridge stocked through October.
Great Lakes Oktoberfest comes in at $8.15, Left Hand at $8.36, and Sierra Nevada at $8.48. None of these prices include tax or any store promotions, so confirm the final price at checkout.
Why the can format is the same across all three
All three are sold as 12oz cans in 6-packs, so you are not choosing between bottles and cans here. That makes them equally portable for tailgates, picnics, or bringing to a friend's place.
Because the package is identical, your decision comes down to price and which brand you prefer. The catalog does not list ABV, flavor notes, or brewery location for these products, so ask the store if you need those details before buying.
When to pick each brand
If you are hosting a casual Oktoberfest-themed night and want to keep costs down, Great Lakes is the value pick. If you already know you like Sierra Nevada's other beers, the slightly higher price may be worth it for brand loyalty. Left Hand sits in the middle and works as a compromise if you want something different from the other two.
Keep in mind that these are seasonal releases, so availability may vary. Check the seasonal category or ask the store staff if a particular brand is out of stock.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Lowest price: Great Lakes: At $8.15 per 6-pack, Great Lakes saves you 33 cents compared with Sierra Nevada and 21 cents compared with Left Hand. Choose it if budget is your main concern. Buying five or more packs? The savings can cover an extra pack.
- Brand loyalty: Sierra Nevada: Sierra Nevada is the most expensive at $8.48, but if you already enjoy the brand, the difference is less than a dollar per pack. Pick it when you know you like the brewery's style.
- Middle ground: Left Hand: Left Hand at $8.36 costs a few cents more than Great Lakes but less than Sierra Nevada. It is a reasonable choice if you want to try a different brand without paying the top price.
Product facts
- SIERRA NEVADA OKTOBERFEST 12oz 6PK CANS: Sierra Nevada Oktoberfest is a 12oz can 6-pack listed at $8.48 (comparison price $12.29). It is the highest-priced option here, but the listed comparison price suggests a potential saving if the regular price is higher.
SIERRA NEVADA OKTOBERFEST 12oz 6PK CANS - GREAT LAKES OKTOBERFEST 12oz 6PK CANS: Great Lakes Oktoberfest is a 12oz can 6-pack listed at $8.15 (comparison price $11.99). It is the lowest-priced of the three, making it a budget-friendly choice for larger gatherings.
GREAT LAKES OKTOBERFEST 12oz 6PK CANS - LEFT HAND OKTOBERFEST 12oz 6PK CANS: Left Hand Oktoberfest is a 12oz can 6-pack listed at $8.36. It sits between the other two on price, so it is a middle-ground option if you want to try something different without paying the top price.
Who should buy which
Best for
- Shoppers hosting a large fall party who want the lowest cost per 6-pack
- Anyone looking for a familiar national brand in a convenient can format
- Buyers who want a middle-priced option to compare against the other two
Not for
- Shoppers who need detailed ABV or tasting notes before buying
- Anyone looking for bottles instead of cans
- Buyers who want a year-round beer rather than a seasonal release
