Introduction

Perhaps a bit surprisingly, annually there is at least one Oktoberfest event in almost every US state, and in several Canadian provinces. Most of the celebrations have bounced back from the covid pandemic years, when they had to close down. All across North America there are Oktoberfest observances for those of us not able to travel to Munich for the real thing – although the dates may vary.

In most cases, we have tried to omit Oktoberfests that are pub crawls or merely a German/Bavarian-themed restaurant or bar labeling a party day as “Oktoberfest.” Only in a few cases do we include such events, and only if (1) they are at least partially authentic, and (2) there are few or no other options in that state.

Many of the Oktoberfest events listed in this guide are very authentic, with real German beer and cuisine, plus traditional music and activities. Although some US events take place around the same time as the real Munich Oktoberfest (in September and early October), the schedules vary widely, with some as early as August, and others running until the end of October or even later. We recommend getting an early start, as many places offer discounted tickets if you book early, and some sell out early.

The Hofbräuhaus Option
One possible Oktoberfest option in the US is the Hofbräuhaus affiliated chain (based in the Las Vegas, NV area), with HB beer halls in several US cities. Although one could argue that it’s not really like being “auf der Wiesn” for Oktoberfest in Munich, it does offer a bit of Bavarian atmosphere and genuine HB beer. There are six official Hofbräuhaus beer halls in the United States: Buffalo, NY; Cleveland, OH; Columbus, OH; Las Vegas, NV; Newport, KY (brew pub) and Pittsburgh, PA (brew pub). With the exception of Las Vegas, they all have an onsite brewery. There are also HB-affiliated beer halls, under a different franchise, in Miami (now closed) and in Manhattan, New York City (Bierhaus). The former HB locations in St. Louis/Belleville, IL; St. Petersburg, FL and Panama City, FL are no longer in business. Unfortunately, there are no HB locations in Canada that we know of.

NOTICE: We are not responsible for changes made by any of these events (dates, venues, prices, etc.). The information provided below was current when published, but always verify information with the website and/or the event providers before planning a visit.

México and Oktoberfest
Mexico is also part of North America, but is not part of this guide – other than to refer you to a few places in Mexico that have Bavarian-style Oktoberfest events. For 2023 (links NOT updated for 2024), the following locations in Mexico indicated they would have Oktoberfest events in September or October: Mexico City (CDMX) (several), Mérida, and Zamora. The Club Alemán in Mexico City sponsors one of that city’s most popular Oktoberfest celebrations in the district of Xochimilco. On a related topic, it seems that the first true beer breweries in Mexico were established in the 19th century by master brewers from Austria, Switzerland, and Germany. See our recent blog post about that history.

If your state or province has no real Oktoberfest celebration, consider bordering or nearby states/provinces. In many cases, a fairly authentic Oktoberfest may be taking place at a location not too far away. Finally, if you know of a good Oktoberfest event in North America that we missed, please let us know. (Only really good ones, please!)

O’zapft is! Prost und viel Spaß!

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The 2024 Canadian and US Oktoberfest events below are listed alphabetically by (1) state/province and (2) city/town. Our guide is divided into two parts.

Oktoberfest in North America: Part 1 (Alabama-North Dakota)
Oktoberfest in North America: Part 2 (Ohio-Wyoming)

Alabama

Cullman Oktoberfest, 3-5 October 2024
Location: Downtown Cullman, 309 1st Avenue NE, Cullman, AL. You may not expect a big German celebration in Alabama, but the small town of Cullman has a long German-heritage history. Its 40+ years-old Oktoberfest observance is authentic in many ways, including the time of the three-day event and a real Biergarten. See the website for details.

Redstone Arsenal Oktoberfest, 13-15 September 2024
Location: Huntsville, Alabama. The 27th Annual Oktoberfest at Redstone Arsenal always happens in September (the authentic European time!), and this year it runs for three days. See the website for details.

Alaska

Healy Augtoberfest 2024, Sat., 10 August 2024 – That’s a bit early for Oktoberfest, but it’s what they do at the Denali Park Pub in Healy, Alaska.

Alberta, Canada

Edmonton Oktoberfest 2024, September 2024
Location: German Canadian Cultural Centre, 8310 Roper Rd. (51 Ave.), Edmonton, Alberta. Hosted by the German Canadian Cultural Centre, this September event takes place in the Oktoberfest Hall and the Biergarten, with food, drink, dancing and music. A special Family Oktoberfest is offered on a Saturday from 2 to 6 pm. See the website for event dates, times, prices, and more information.

Oktoberfest @ the ICE District (Edmonton), 12-28 September 2024
Location: Fan Park @ ICE District in downtown Edmonton. Presented by Condor Airlines, Canada’s largest Oktoberfest celebration is returning to Fan Park @ ICE District. Edmontonians will once again have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Oktoberfest.

Vermilion | V-Town Oktoberfest, 5 October 2024
Location: Elks Hall, Vermilion, AB. Not nearly as big or as long as the Munich original, but there’s a real German band, real German food, and real Oktoberfest fun! It’s Vermilion meets Munich when you walk through the door. The music is lively, there’s singing, dancing, and the smell of warm pretzels lingers in the air. Vermilion (pop. 3,948) is located 192 km (119 mi) east of Edmonton.

Arizona

Chandler – Downtown Oktoberfest, 27-28 September 2024, 3:00-10:00 pm.
Location: Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, AZ. This two-day event sponsored by SanTan Brewing Co. is in its third year. Features beer, German fare, games, live music, and a family fun zone.

Fountain Hills Oktoberfest, 28-29 September 2024
Location: 12925 N. Saguaro Boulevard, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268. Authentic German food and band direct from Germany. Warsteiner Beer served. Wine and soft drinks available. Fun for the entire family. – Now held only in even years (2024, 2026, etc.)

Sierra Vista Oktoberfest, 13-14 September 2024
Location: Veterans Memorial Park, 3105 Fry Blvd., Sierra Vista, AZ 85635. This weekend event features delicious cuisine available from a variety of food vendors. Live entertainment will enthrall you at Der Biergarten and excitement abounds with the Sun Valley Rides Carnival. See the website for more.

Tempe (Four Peaks Oktoberfest), 11-13 October 2024
Location: 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe 85281. Main Entrance: NW corner of Mill Avenue and Rio Salado Parkway. This three-day Arizona Oktoberfest celebrates its 51st year in 2024. Family friendly, live music, and many activities over three days.

Arkansas

Little Rock (Little Rocktoberfest), 28 September 2024, 5:00-9:00 pm
Location: Rusty Tractor Vineyards, 10 Rusty Tractor Lane, Little Rock, AR 72210. Sponsored since 2003 by the Central Arkansas Fermenters, this four-hour, one-day event is the only Oktoberfest event we could locate in the state. “…sample commercial beers from across the world, taste the latest beers from our local Arkansas Craft Breweries, enjoy a bratwurst dinner provided by Fassler Hall, check out our infamous Homebrew Exhibition where you will find many one of a kind brews from local homebrewers, and support a local charity!”

If you know of other Oktoberfest events in Arkansas, please let us know.

British Columbia, Canada

Penticton Beer Week Block Party, 4-14 October 2024
Locations: Various. Penticton Conference Centre (BrewHaHa); 10K check-in at Okanagan Park, 86 Lakeshore Dr. E, Penticton, BC V2A 1B5 – for the Penticton Beer Run on 14 October. This (sort of) Oktoberfest-like block party and 10K running/walking event (plus BrewHaHa) is sponsored by ten breweries and local eateries in mid-October. Beer, wine, plus food trucks. See the websites for details.

California

Note: Many communities and bar/restaurants in California offer one-day Oktoberfest events that are NOT included here, as per our previous explanation above. The few we do include are those rare exceptions that are more than a beer bash claiming to be Oktoberfest. A web search for “Oktoberfest + city” will locate most of those not listed here.

Anaheim (Phoenix Club)
See “Brea” below.

Bay Area – San Francisco, September-October 2024
This link takes you to a list of many Bay Area and NoCal Oktoberfest events, from Benicia to San Leandro taking place from mid-September to late October. Also includes some Northern California locations outside the actual Bay Area, such as Auburn and Tahoe City.

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest, over nine straight weekends from 7 September to 2 November 2024
Location: Big Bear Lake Convention Center (free trolley shuttle rides). The 54th annual classic Oktoberfest celebration combines Big Bear’s mountain charm with authentic German traditions, charismatic characters dressed in full regalia, German bands rocking oom-pah-pah tunes, and much more. See the website for details.

Brea (Phoenix Club), Saturdays and Sundays, 5-20 October 2024
Location: The Phoenix Club, 375 Central Ave., Brea, CA 92821. Formerly in Anaheim, the Phoenix Club celebrates its 65th Oktoberfest in 2024 at its new home in Brea. See the website for the details of the 2024 Oktoberfest, featuring a full range of Oktoberfest-like fun, from authentic Bavarian beer to live music at the club’s new Bierstube restaurant, bar, beer hall, and outdoor beer garden in Brea. Saturdays are 21 and over only! Prepaid tickets are required, and they can be obtained online. Onsite parking is limited.

Carlsbad Oktoberfest (San Diego area), 5 October 2024
Location: Carlsbad Strawberry Company, 1050 Cannon Road, Carlsbad CA 92008. The Rotary Clubs of Carlsbad sponsor this popular annual event as a charitable activity, now in its 42nd year. From the website: “Indulge in authentic German cuisine from Tip Top Meats, partake in activities for both kids and adults, immerse yourself in live German music, and, of course, relish our vibrant Biergarten!” Admission: $10. Cashless event.

Chico Oktoberfest, two weekends: 27 and 28 September; 4 and 5 October 2024
Location: Festival Field, 1075 East 20th Street Chico, CA 95928. See 2024 Oktoberfest in Chico, sponsored by the Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., for details.

El Cajon Oktoberfest (San Diego area), 27-29 September and 4-6 October 2024
Location: 1017 S. Mollison Ave,, El Cajon, CA. Hosted by the German American Societies of San Diego on two weekends. Opening day parade and ceremonial keg tapping. German bands, delicious Bavarian food, beer, and liquor, and traditional clothing.

Huntington Beach Oktoberfest (Orange County), 8 September through 3 November 2024 (every Wednesday, thru Sunday); also a Plum Festival (Pflaumenfest) on 25 August 2024. Since 1978.
Location (Oktoberfest): Biergarten at Old World Huntington Beach – 7561 Center Ave. #49, Huntington Beach, CA 92647. Rocktoberfest: 30 Aug. – 7 Sep. (weekends), with live music. Some events are age restricted. See the website for details and tickets.

Redwood City Oktoberfest, 20-22 and 24-29 September 2024
Location: Courthouse Square, downtown Redwood City. With a massive 2,000-foot-long tent, this popular event now offers nine days of authentic German-style food, beverages, and live entertainment.

Sacramento Oktoberfest (Turnverein), 11 and 12 October 2024
Location: Sacramento Turn Verein, 3349 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95816. Admission: adults $20, children 12 and under $5. Sacramento’s biggest annual Oktoberfest celebration, this famous festival occurs every October and includes: Authentic German beer on tap, wine, and German food; Outdoor Biergarten; Live music from three different bands; Kid-friendly activities; German music and dancers. It’s like a piece of Munich, right in Sacramento!

Sacramento (Oktoberfest Midtown Sacramento), Sat., 28 September 2024
Location: Der Biergarten, 2332 K Street, Sacramento, CA 95816. Sacramento’s first and only true Beer Garden in Midtown at 24th and K streets. In 2024 Der Biergarten will once again take over the block of 24th and K Streets in Midtown Sacramento to present their Oktoberfest Street Party on the last Saturday of September. The event starts at 3:00 pm and will end at 9:00 pm, with live music featuring the Gruber Family Band. DJ Eddie Z will be in the mix along with our MC Tommy G. German beer, German entertainment, German food, and you can play games to win prizes. See the event website for more.

San Diego (La Mesa Oktoberfest), 4-6 October 2024
Location: La Mesa Village, San Diego, CA. This three-day event, celebrated annually since 1973, offers three Biergartens, kids activities, German and international foods, games and more. VIP passes vary from $15 to $45 per adult; under 21 = $10-25. See the website for more.

South Lake Tahoe – Himmel Haus Oktoberfest, 3 weekends: mid to late September until the first weekend in October 2024
Location: Himmel Haus, 3819 Saddle Rd., So. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150. See website for schedule and events. Live music, food, beer and wine.

Torrance – Alpine Village
Sad to say, the Bavarian-themed shops at Alpine Village and its Oktoberfest event in Torrance, CA closed permanently in March 2023, after 55 years. According to media reports, the property at 833 West Torrance Blvd. was sold for a reported $43 million to a developer.

Colorado

Beaver Creek Oktoberfest, 30 August – 1 September 2024 (Labor Day weekend)
Location: Beaver Creek Resort – Beaver Creek Village – Biergarten and Village Green Main Stage. This three-day event features all the usual attractions we expect from a good Oktoberfest. See the website for more.

Breckenridge Oktoberfest, 13-15 September 2024
Location: Historic Main Street, Breckenridge, CO. At the 19th annual event enjoy Breckenridge Brewery beers, including their signature Oktoberfest brew, while soaking up breathtaking views of the Ten Mile Range.

Colorado Springs Oktoberfest, late September 2024 (dates to be announced)
Location: Western Museum of Mining and Industry, 225 North Gate Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO

Denver Oktoberfest, 20-22 September and 27-29 September 2024
Location: Larimer Street between 20th and 22nd, Denver, CO. Two weekends in the Ballpark District of Denver. Since 1969. Beer hall, stein hoisting, live music and more.

Denver Kickers Oktoberfest (Golden), 13-15 September 2024
Location: Denver Kickers Sport Club, 16776 W. 50th Ave, Golden, CO 80403. Authentic Bavarian atmosphere with traditional food, live music, folk dancing, etc. Free admission.

Greeley Oktobrewfest, 27 and 28 September 2024
Location: Lincoln Park in Downtown Greeley.

Loveland Oktoberfest, 13 and 14 September 2024
Location: Fairgrounds Park, 700 S Railroad Ave, Loveland, CO 80537

Montrose Oktoberfest, 28 September 2024, 1-5pm
Location: Montrose Rotary Amphitheater at Cerise Park, Montrose, CO. Sample dozens of craft beers and vote for your favorite brewery! Live music, food trucks, contests and more.

Vail Oktoberfest, September 2024; two locations/dates
Locations: 6-8 September at Lionshead Village, and 13-15 September at Vail Village in Vail, CO.

Connecticut

BrewFest Weekend (Bristol), 6 (concert) and 7 (BrewFest) September 2024
Location: Historic Muzzy Field, Bristol, CT. The Friday concert features The Dave Matthews Tribute Band. Saturday’s BrewFest is sponsored by several local breweries. Details at the website.

Bristol German Fest (Immanuel Lutheran Church), 20 and 21 September 2024
Location: Immanuel Lutheran Church, 154 Meadow St., Bristol, CT. The Festival celebrates the heritage and culture of the church’s German founders. German beer, food, a stein-holding contest, and more fun in a tented Biergarten.

Milford Oktoberfest, 20 and 21 September 2024
Location: Fowler Field, Devon Rotary Pavilion, Milford, CT. An annual two-day event with beer, food, German dancers, German music, and more.

Stratford (11th Annual Ok2berfest), 21 and 22 September 2024
Location: Two Roads Brewery, 1700 Stratford Ave, Stratford, CT. Rain or shine! 11th Annual Ok2berfest. Purchase tickets for various categories ($30-$600). See the website for details.
NOTE: 21+ ONLY event. No kids/babies/minors or animals permitted.

Delaware

Newark (Delaware Saengerbund Oktoberfest), 20-22 September 2024
Location: The Delaware Saengerbund, 49 Salem Church Road, Newark, DE 19713

Florida

Cape Coral Oktoberfest (Ft Meyers area), 18-20 and 25-27 October 2024
Location: German American Social Club, 2101 SW Pine Island Rd, Cape Coral, FL 33991. This year marks the 39th edition of the Cape Coral Oktoberfest – on the last two full weekends of October.

Lake Worth Oktoberfest, 11-13 and 18-20 October 2024
Location: The American German Club, 5111 Lantana Rd, Lake Worth, FL. Celebrating its 50th year on two weekends, the Lake Worth Oktoberfest is an authentic event with rides, music and Bavarian style fare.

Miami (Oktoberfest Miami), 11-13 and 18-20 October 2024
Location: German American Social Club of Greater Miami, 11919 Southwest 56th Street, Miami, FL 33155. The German American Social Club celebrates its 67th Oktoberfest Miami® in 2024. The oldest Oktoberfest in Florida (since 1958) is open to all, including families.

Miami (Bavaria Haus) (Permanently closed)
Location: 401 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, FL. See other Miami area options.

Orlando Oktoberfest, 5 and 26 October 2024
Location: German American Society of Central Florida, 381 Orange Ln, Casselberry, FL 32707. This is Central Florida’s biggest Oktoberfest event, welcoming over 10,000 guests each year.

Tampa Oktoberfest, 11-13 October 2024
Location: Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, 600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa FL 33602. The 13th annual edition of Tampa’s three-day Oktoberfest.

Georgia

Helen Oktoberfest, 5-8, 12-15, 19-22 September 2024; nightly from 26 September to 27 October 2024
Location: Helen Festhalle, 1074 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen, GA 30545. The Helen Oktoberfest claims to be the longest running Oktoberfest in the United States. It is definitely Georgia’s best and longest running one. Opening parade on Sat., 7 September at noon. Beer tapping after the parade in the Festhalle.

Valdosta Oktoberfest (Facebook), 26-29 September 2024
Location: Georgia Beer Co., 109 S. Briggs St., Valdosta, GA. Valdosta’s 6th Annual Oktoberfest lasts four days and offers German-style beers, authentic German food, and live music.

Hawaii

Big Island (Hilo)
Hilo Bay Oktoberfest
Location: Sangha Hall, Hilo, HI. Hilo on the Big Island held its 23rd Oktoberfest event on 30 September 2023, but as of August 2024 the website still had not been updated for 2024. Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Hilo Bay.

Oahu (Honolulu)
In the past, Honolulu had a two-day “Oktoberfest Hawaii” at Aloha Stadium, and a few other fall events, but there is no website and nothing scheduled for 2024. If you know of Oahu or Honolulu events not listed below, please let us know.

Beer, Brats and Beethoven (Oktoberfest), Thu., 10 October 2024
Location: Blue Note Hawaii (in the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort), 2333 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815. An evening of polkas, singalongs and more, including “Ein Prosit” and “Beer Barrel Polka.” This Beethoven inspired Oktoberfest will include the composer’s greatest hits arranged for the Honolulu Brass Quintet. Sponsored by Chamber Music Hawaii (CMH). Blue Note Hawaii features a year-round lineup of musical entertainment – from local talent to international sensations.

Honolulu Oktoberfest Bar Crawl, Saturday, 28 September, 4-11 pm.
Location: 43 North Hotel Street Honolulu, HI 96817. Starting point. Free tickets only admit you to the bars. You must pay for drinks/food yourself. See the website for details.

Maui (Kahului) (HELP SUPPORT LAHAINA!)
Brigit and Bernard’s Garden Cafe (Oktoberfest), five weekends (Fri & Sat) in September and October, starting on 29 September 2024
Location: 335 Ho’ohana Street, Kahului, HI. Swiss-born chef and owner Bernard Weber personally prepares the German-style cuisine. German beer. For Oktoberfest season, this German patio restaurant features a special Oktoberfest buffet and an oompah band (“Die Dorfmusikanten”) on weekends until 28 October 2024. Rain or shine! The restaurant contributes to the Lahaina Fire Relief Fund and supports other Maui-based businesses. Limited seating. Reservations strongly advised! Closed for dinner on Sunday and Monday (dinner after 5:00 pm, Tue-Sat; lunch Mon-Fri, 11:00 am to 2:30 pm).

Idaho

Boise (Old Boise Oktoberfest), cancelled for 2024. “We will be back in 2025!” One-day event in September.
Location: Downtown Boise, 6th & Grove, 515 W Grove St., Boise, ID

Coeur d’Alene Oktoberfest, 20-21 September 2024
Location: Downtown Coeur d’Alene, 105 N. 1st St, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814.

Illinois

Chicago (German American Oktoberfest), 6-8 September 2024
Location: Lincoln Square, corner of Lincoln and Western streets. This three-day event features two large tents, three bands, German food and drink. Family friendly.

Other Oktoberfests in Illinois (2024) – from funtober.com

Peoria Oktoberfest, 20-22 September 2024
Location: Peoria Riverfront, Peoria, IL. Since 1996.

Indiana

Indianapolis – 50th German American Klub Oktoberfest, 5-7 September 2024
Location: German Park, 8600 S. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN. Live music in the beer garden. See website for details.

Iowa

Iowa has a lot of German-heritage history. There are many one-day Oktoberfest events in large and small communities all across Iowa, but we list very few of them here, saving space for the longer, better ones.

Amana Colonies Oktoberfest, 4-6 October 2024 (2025: 3-5 October)
Location: Amana Colonies Festhalle and Oktoberfest Grounds. This is an authentic, full-blown Oktoberfest celebration over three days. Info: Amana Colonies Visitor, 622 46th Ave, Amana, IA 52203. Note: The Amana Colonies Trail, Hwy 220, is a 17-mile loop that connects all seven Amana villages. See the website for more.

Des Moines (20th Annual Oktoberfest), 27 and 28 September 2024
Location: Downtown Des Moines, Lauridsen Amphitheater, Water Works Park. “You bring the dirndl and lederhosen, we’ll supply the Bavarian beers, ‘kraut and everything you need to get into the spirit.”

Dubuque Oktoberfest, Saturday, September 14, 2024, 11:00 am – 6:00 pm (one day only), donations requested, proceeds benefit Camp Albrecht Acres
Location: Back Waters Stage at the Q Casino, Dubuque, IA

Kansas

Hays Oktoberfest, 4 and 5 October 2024
Location: Municipal Park, Hays, KS. Hosted by the Volga German Society, the Hays Oktoberfest promises “Two days of family, fun, and fermentation.” Community members of Hays, Kansas have held an Oktoberfest celebration full of its Volga Germans’ heritage and their historically rich community since 1972.

Kansas City Oktoberfest, 4 and 5 October 2024
Location: Crown Center, Kansas City, KS. Bavarian style beer, food, and music.

Kentucky

Harrodsburg Oktoberfest, 4-6 October 2024
Location: Historic Main Street, downtown. Although it draws about 15,000 attendees each year, this Central Kentucky three-day event is not really very Bavarian. But it does have food, beer, and free concerts to enjoy.

Newport Oktoberfest, 13-15 September 2024
Location: Newport’s Festival Park at the Levee. Newport, Kentucky is just across the river from Cincinnati, Ohio, which has its own big Oktoberfest. This event is separate from the Newport Hofbräuhaus below.

Newport Hofbräuhaus, September 2024
Location: Hofbräuhaus Brewery and Restaurant, Newport, KY. In the past the Newport Hofbräuhaus has featured various Oktoberfest events during two weekends in September, but so far the website shows nothing Oktoberfest-related for 2024.

Louisiana

New Orleans (Deutsches Haus Oktoberfest), 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 October 2024
Location: On Bayou St. John, across from City Park, 1700 Moss St., New Orleans. Sponsored by the Deutsches Haus, the Oktoberfest New Orleans is held on three weekends from 4-11 pm on Fridays and 1-11 pm on Saturdays. See the website for details.

Maine

Acadia’s Oktoberfest, 11-12 October 2024 (27th Annual Brewfest)
Location: Archie’s Lobster, 90 Tremont Rd., Bass Harbor, Maine. This is a combination Wine Tasting (11 Oct.) and Oktoberfest (12 Oct.).

Maryland

Frederick (Frederick’s Oktoberfest), 27 and 28 September 2024
Location: Frederick Fairgrounds. A Friday and Saturday charitable event sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of Frederick County, Maryland.

Baltimore (Das Best Oktoberfest), 5 October 2024 only (noon to 5 pm)
Location: Maryland State Fairgrounds (Infield), Baltimore. More of a one-day craft beer festival, the Baltimore Oktoberfest does have wurst and 120 international, domestic, and local beers, plus live music and more. Only adults 21 or over admitted. See the website for more.

Massachusetts

Walpole (BSV Oktoberfest), 7 and 8 September 2024
Location: Boylston Schul-Verein (BSV), Walpole, MA. Walpole is considered the most authentic Oktoberfest event in Massachusetts. NOTE: No tickets sold at the gate! You must buy tickets online! – If you can’t attend this one, there are two others sponsored by Notch Brewing that offer a good second choice: the Notch Oktoberfest in Brighton and in Salem, both held in a Biergarten.

Michigan

Frankenmuth Oktoberfest, 19-22 September 2024
Location: Heritage Park, Frankenmuth, MI. 2024 marks the 34th traditional Oktoberfest in Frankenmuth. See the website for more information.

Grand Rapids Oktoberfest, 27 and 28 September 2024
Location: Riverside Park (on Monroe Ave NE), Grand Rapids, rain or shine. The proceeds of this two-day festival benefit the Edelweiss Club of Grand Rapids, a German American club founded in 1980, located in the scenic city of Grand Rapids, 45 miles east of Lake Michigan. The organization is a non-profit, social club designed to promote and celebrate German culture through singing, dancing, biking, hiking, picnicking, and of course, celebrating Oktoberfest.

Minnesota

Minnesota Oktoberfest (Delano), 20 and 21 September 2024
Location: Delano Central Park, 650 River St N., Delano, MN 55328. This annual Friday and Saturday event features brews, food, live music, fall harvest vendors and countless ways for the entire family to connect in the spirit of Oktoberfest.

New Ulm Oktoberfest, 4-5 and 11-12 October 2024
Location: Multiple event locations in New Ulm, including the Historic Downtown, the Best Western Plus, Morgan Creek Vineyards, and Schnell’s Brewery. It all begins with a parade that extends from the Glockenspiel to the event location. German-inspired foods and local beer fuel one of the country’s most popular and highly rated Oktoberfests. After all, with the name New Ulm, the community should know how to put on a German festival. It’s also home to the iconic Hermann the German monument.

Saint Paul (Twin Cities Oktoberfest), 4 and 5 October 2024
Location: Minnesota State Fairgrounds, Progress Center Building (aka Eco Experience), 1621 Randall Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108. The 14th annual Twin Cities Oktoberfest is a two-day, Bavarian-style event taking place at the State Fairgrounds in Falcon Heights, located between the state capital of Saint Paul (pop. 311,527) and Minneapolis (pop. 429,954). It opens one day after the Munich original closes (3 October).

Mississippi

Zip! Nichts! Nada! Unfortunately the Cleveland, MS event doesn’t really count.

Missouri

Saint Charles Oktoberfest (St. Louis area), 27-29 September 2024
Location: Frontier Park, St. Charles, MO. This Friday, Saturday, Sunday event offers a fairly authentic family-friendly Oktoberfest experience. See the website for more.

Lee’s Summit Oktoberfest, 27-29 September 2024
Location: Downtown, Lee’s Summit, MO. Free event, including live entertainment and performances. Possible costs include carnival, food, drinks, pony rides and souvenirs.

Montana

Whitefish (Great Northwest Oktoberfest), 26-28 September and 3-5 October 2024
Location: Depot Park, downtown Whitefish, MT. This two-weekends event features German beer, food, and activities (keg throwing, Masskrugstemmen [stein hoisting, men and women]), and more.

Nebraska

Norfolk (Oktoberfest Family Festival), 20 and 21 September 2024
Location: Norfolk Area Chamber. Northeast Nebraska residents celebrate the area’s German heritage and the fall harvest with this two-day family festival in September that features live music, German food, a beer garden, and family entertainment.

Omaha (German Day Oktoberfest), 20 and 21 September 2024
Location: German American Society, 3717 S 120th St., Omaha. 2024 marks the 140th German Day celebration, later paired with Oktoberfest. Fred Austerlitz, better known as Fred Astaire, was born in Omaha to an Austrian father and a German mother.

Omaha (Huber-Haus Oktoberfest), 27 and 28 September 2024
Location: 3578 Farnam St., Omaha, NE. The 23rd Annual Oktoberfest at the Huber Haus German Bier Hall.

Syracuse (GermanFest), 3 days: 4-6 October 2024
Location: Syracuse Sports Complex and Otoe County Fairgrounds, Syracuse, NE. Main events all day on Saturday, 30 September at the fairgrounds. Cash only. See the website for details.

Nevada

Las Vegas (Hofbräuhaus Oktoberfest), 13 September – 31 October 2024
Location: Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas, 4510 Paradise Rd. Las Vegas. Even though this establishment has the slogan “Experience Oktoberfest every day of the week,” they add a little extra in September and October. Every Friday and Saturday during this time they feature celebrity keg tappings, Oktoberfest beer from Munich, live music, contests, and more.

Seven Oh Brew Oktoberfest, Las Vegas,
4-6 October 2024
Location: Craig Ranch Regional Park, 628 West Craig Road, North Las Vegas. Las Vegas’ authentic Oktoberfest, presented by Seven Oh Brew, is far more than beer drinking and pretzel eating. Committed to bringing true German culture and heritage to the celebration, guests can enjoy three days of entertainment and activities.

North Las Vegas Oktoberfest, October (no dates for 2024)
Location: 1110 East Lake Mead Blvd, North Las Vegas, NV. Sponsored by the German American Social Club of Nevada, this two-day annual Oktoberfest celebration features German beer and food, German music, and traditional dance performances. See the website for more.

NEW! Sparks – 1st Annual Oktoberfest, 4-6 October 2024
Location: Nugget Event Center, Nugget Casino Resort, Sparks, NV. This Reno area resort will hold its first Oktoberfest event over three days in 2024. Admission is free (just like in Munich), but if you want to partake of any food and drink, you’ll have to pay (just like in Munich). You can go a-la-carte or buy an all-day wristband ($125) that includes a Sparks Oktoberfest stein, a meal ticket and two beer refills. The Hofbräu VIP Tent ($175): Unlimited beer and wine, 2 Jägermeister shots, commemorative 1st Annual Sparks Oktoberfest stein, German lunch or dinner & appetizers, access to private bar/restrooms, all day access to private seating, games, and activities. More info at the website.

New Hampshire

Lincoln: White Mountain Oktoberfest), 12-14 October 2024
Location: Loon Mountain Resort, Lincoln, NH 03251. This three-day event offers all the usual Oktoberfest attractions, plus scenic gondola rides, fall foliage, an indoor/outdoor beer garden, and free parking. See the website for more.

New Jersey

Clark: Deutscher Club Oktoberfest, 5-6 October 2024
Location: Deutscher Club Biergarten, 787 Featherbed Ln., Clark, NJ. Offering two days of festivities, this Oktoberfest celebration, sponsored by the Deutscher Club of Clark, the largest German Club in New Jersey, offers food, drink, and fun for adults and kids in a beautiful pavilion and grove setting.

Trenton Oktoberfest, 28 and 29 September 2024
Location: German American Society of Trenton, 215 Uncle Pete’s Rd., Trenton, NJ. Also the semiannual Schnitzel Feast on 15 September.

Wildwood (Morey’s Pier Oktoberfest), 13-15, 20-22, 27-29 September; 4-6 and 11-13 October 2024
Location: Morey’s Pier, 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ 08260. You know it may get weird when you read about the legend of “Oktober the Oktopus”: “Folks of the Wildwoods, no strangers to the unusual, welcomed Oktober das Oktopas with open arms. He introduced them to all the joys of the Oktoberfest, that ancient German tradition of merriment, roller coasters, tilt-a-whirls, pretzels, and bratwurst.” Featuring “Bier on the Pier,” the Morey’s Pier Oktoberfest offers fun for the entire family on four weekends between 13 September and 13 October 2024.

New Mexico

Red River Oktoberfest, 11-13 October 2024
Location: Brandenburg Park, Red River. This three-day 19th Annual Oktoberfest features craft beer, wine, food vendors, live German music, and more. Red River (pop. 542) is located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains at an elevation of 8,671 feet, and 36 miles from Taos.

New York

Brooklyn, NYC (Zum Schneider Oktoberfest), 26 September – 6 October 2024
Location: Bushwick, 260 Meserole St., Brooklyn. “Munich in Brooklyn” features a large tent with imported Oktoberfest Bier from Andechs, HB Traunstein, and Weihenstephan served in one-liter steins. It all happens in a big backyard of an old brewery in Williamsburg. Enjoy live music, Schuhplattler, and Bavarian-style food. See the website for more.

German American Oktoberfest, NYC, 21 September 2024
Location: Rumsey Playfield, Central Park, 5th Ave and 69th St., New York, NY, 10022. Following the Steuben Parade. Doors open at 1:00pm. Tickets required. See the website for details.

Manhattan, NYC (Watermark Oktoberfest), 14 September – 27 October 2024
Location: Watermark Waterfront Bar, 78 South St., Pier 15, NYC. Features Radeberger, Hofbräuhaus, and Weihenstephan beer. Open seven days a week, this Oktoberfest party, with views of the Brooklyn and Williamsburg bridges and the Brooklyn skyline, is always one of the best around. Easily accessible by public transport. Traditional dress is encouraged. See the website for details.

North Carolina

Charlotte (Mecktoberfest), Four weekends between 13 September and 13 October 2024 (two weekends each at two locations)
Locations: OMB and Biergarten, 4150 Yancey Road and Ballantyne, 15025 Bowl St., Charlotte, NC 28277. Charlotte is located in Mecklenburg County, named after a region in Germany. Hence “Mecktoberfest” – celebrated on four weekends. The local sponsoring brewery is named The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery (OMB) and the event is held in their spacious Biergarten. At Charlotte’s original and largest Oktoberfest festival you can enjoy traditional German fare alongside live music performances. You can make it a night to remember with a one-liter DAS BOOT and stein-holding contests (but don’t tell them that in German “das Boot” means submarine or boat).

Charlotte (Gilde Oktoberfest), 27 September – 13 October 2024 (three weekends)
Location: Gilde Brewery, 3530 Dewitt Lane, Charlotte, NC 28217. Embark on a three-weekend-long journey into an authentic German festival experience at Gilde Brewery’s 2nd annual OKTOBERFEST. Live music and keg tapping in a German-style brewhouse. Prost Y’all!

Hickory Oktoberfest, 11-13 October 2024
Location: Union Square, downtown Hickory. This year is the 38th annual Hickory Oktoberfest. The city was co-founded by Adolphus “Dolph” Shuford (originally Schuffert), of German heritage, and is now home to several German companies. Hickory’s Oktoberfest celebration is considered one of the best in North Carolina.

Sugar Mountain Oktoberfest, 12 and 13 October 2024
Location: Sugar Mountain Resort Main Lodge, 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive, Sugar Mountain, NC 28604. This year is Sugar Mountain’s 33rd annual Oktoberfest. From 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, visitors can enjoy Bavarian beer and cuisine, along with other festival favorites. Barrels of Bavaria’s Spaten Oktoberfest beer, created in 1872 and brewed in Munich as the world’s first Oktoberfest beer, will flow generously. This weekend event in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains coincides with colorful fall foliage viewing. See the resort’s Oktoberfest website for details.

Triangle Oktoberfest (Cary), 4 and 5 October 2024
Location: Koka Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Parkway, Cary, NC 27518. This year is the 10th annual Triangle Oktoberfest, sponsored by the Apex Sunrise Rotary Club and the Cary MacGregor Rotary Club. Over 40 beers on tap, ranging from original Bavarian choices such as Paulaner, Spaten, Ayinger, Hacker-Pschorr, and Hofbräu to a host of seasonal Oktoberfest brews and local craft favorites. Dining choices include authentic Bavarian fare. More at the website.

Note: There are also one-day Oktoberfest-like events on various dates in North Carolina in the following communities: Asheville, Durham, Charlotte (Das Best Oktoberfest), Jacksonville, Kernersville, New Bern, Raleigh, Rock Hill, and Wilmington.

North Dakota

Moorhead Sausage Fest (Fargo area), 28 September 2024
Location: Moorhead Presbyterian Church, Moorhead, MN. This one-day event is pretty much all we’ve found for North Dakota. Moorhead is just across the ND-MN state line from Fargo and West Fargo.

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Next | Oktoberfest in North America: Part 2 (Ohio-Wyoming)

Also see: Oktoberfest in Munich and History and Culture