Fall is the best time of year to get outside and enjoy a festival. For those who love a beer and bratwurst, there’s nothing better than Oktoberfest. If you’re looking for the best German Oktoberfest experience but aren’t quite ready to spring for a ticket to Munich, here is a list of our favorite Oktoberfest events in the Midwest to check out this October!
Top 5 Best Oktoberfest Events to Check Out
New Ulm, Minnesota: New Ulm is known for its strong German roots, so you know when Oktoberfest rolls around they’re sure to put on a festival you won’t forget! For two weekends beginning Oct. 4th and 5th, and ending 11th and 12th, this Oktoberfest celebration will include parades, music, food, beer, and so much more. The fest will feature local breweries, games for adults and kids, and horse-drawn trolley rides. While you’re there, you may also want to check out “Hermannsdenkmal,” commonly referred to as the “Herman the German” statue!
Iowa City, IA: This Oktoberfest celebration was created for a good cause! The fest benefits Iowa City nonprofits and will feature plenty of local breweries, local food vendors, and activities for both adults and kids. You will even walk away with a free glass to refill at all the different beer vendors, which gives you a unique souvenir and helps cut down on waste from the event! Check it out on Oct. 5th!
Milwaukee WI: Leinenkugel’s presents their annual Oktoberfest in Milwaukee on Oct. 4th and 5th. This fest is always popular among locals and travelers, as it’s free to the public, offers complementary beers, and has everything to create the perfect Midwestern outdoor festival with local bands, a Miss Oktoberfest competition, and a cornhole tournament!
Amana, IA: The Amana Colonies puts on a huge Oktoberfest that kicks off with a traditional keg tapping ceremony led by the Burgermeister himself. You can also enjoy plenty of children’s activities, pony rides, brat eating competitions, and keg tosses, all while listening to a variety of different local bands!
Aberdeen, SD: The Aberdeen Oktoberfest blends both German and Russian traditions into one fun filled day! You can still find all the classic events that make Oktoberfest great, with traditional German foods and music, craft beer tasting, beer and wine gardens, and even a root beer garden for the kids. The event will even feature a Hammerschlagen competition and Dachshund races!
Grab your lederhosen, dirndl, and camera to snap some pictures of all the bratwurst eating, cornhole playing, beer drinking, and puppy racing at Oktoberfest! Then be sure to stop by the GiftWorksPlus
website for a custom frame that’s perfect for the occasion!
