Oktoberfest is one of the most beloved events that occurs in Germany every year — but you don’t have to travel to Munich to join the fun. Oktoberfest celebrations across the United States bring authentic German music, food, beer, and traditions to cities from California to Maine throughout October. Whether you’re near a major metropolitan area or a small German-heritage town, there are incredible Oktoberfest celebrations to enjoy right here in the U.S.
Alpine Village Oktoberfest Celebrations – Torrance, California
Mentioned in USA Today as one of the best Oktoberfests in the world, they have been celebrating Octoberfest for over 47 years and attracts over 100,000 people each year. You get traditional Germany music, food, beers and hand made goods. Visit each weekend (Friday evenings through Sunday,) from through October 26th.
Hofbrauhaus Oktoberfest – Las Vegas, Nevada
An authentic German beer hall and restaurants located in Las Vegas. It is an exact replica of the famous Hofbrauhaus in Munich, Germany. Enjoy nightly live entertainment, Bavarian food, shopping and the tree lined beer garden. If you sign up for their newsletter in advance, you can enjoy a free beer.
Ocean Beach Oktoberfest – San Diego, California
The Ocean Beach Oktoberfest kicks off on Saturday, October 10th with the Brat Trot Beach Run. After the run there are many different activities taking places. One of the most popular events is the Sausage Toss Competition. This event is so popular because there’s a $10,000 cash prize at stake. There’s also a competition where women can compete for the infamous title of Miss Oktoberfest. The Ocean Beach Oktoberfest is taking place on October 10th and 11th.
Leavenworth Oktoberfest Celebrations – Leavenworth, Washington
This event should not be missed. This neat little town looks like a Bavarian village. The Oktoberfest festivities include a parade that features flags from different countries, bounces houses, a rock climbing wall, horse drawn carriages and various types of food including bratwursts, pulled pork sandwiches and German cake. Leavenworth Oktoberfest will be on October 3rd, 4th, 0th, 11th, 17th and 18th.
New Ulm Oktoberfest – New Ulm, Minnesota
This year marks the 33rd year for the New Ulm Oktoberfest. This town was actually founded by German immigrants so this event has become quite the celebration. Favorite activities for this festival include dancing to songs played by the various bands and sampling the different authentic German food. The New Ulm Oktoberfest takes places on October 3rd, 4th, 10th and 11th.
Acadia’s Oktoberfest, Southwest Harbor, Maine
Acadia’s Oktoberfest is actually two events rolled into one. On October 10th there will be a wine and cheese tasting in the evening. On October 11th the Oktoberfest fun kicks off at noon. There will be beer stein holding contests and a beer-less pong competition. Attendees can also relax in the tent listening to one of the many bands playing or browse some of the items for sale from one of the vendors on site.
Tulsa Oktoberfest – Tulsa, Oklahoma
Besides being known for Route 66, Tulsa is also known for its Oktoberfest. This event is so huge in fact that it spans over a period of 4 days. There is plenty to do for both the kids and the adults including a children’s tent, a Dachshund Dash and a 3 mile foot race. For those who love good, German food, they are in luck because there’s plenty of it. Bavarian cheesecake is one of the top sellers.
Grab your lederhosen and get ready for some Oktoberfest fun. Even if you aren’t going to be in one of these cities, there’s many great events taking place throughout the month of October. If you are lucky, one of them might even be near you!
No matter where you are in the country, these Oktoberfest celebrations offer a wonderful chance to experience German culture without leaving the U.S. From beer stein competitions in Maine to authentic Bavarian festivals in Washington, Oktoberfest celebrations make October one of the best months for a domestic travel adventure.
Other posts that may interest you: Beers of Oktoberfest and History of Oktoberfest
