Missouri, a landlocked midwestern state in the United States, is home to some of the most delightful venues for Oktoberfest. All the celebrations are held during fall, mostly over weekends in September or October, following the theme of the OG Oktoberfest celebration in Munich. All the venues provide a chance to savour authentic German food and beers, from sausages and pretzels to brews served in steins. For entertainment purposes, live music fills the air, with oompah bands and yodeling performances keeping the energy high. Do not miss out on the various contests and events, including stein hoisting and traditional dances.
Locations of Oktoberfest Missouri
Missouri offers a vibrant Oktoberfest scene with festivities concentrated in several charming towns. Here's a breakdown of the state's major Oktoberfest celebrations:
- Hermann Oktoberfest: Hermann, MO 65041, United States
- Soulard, St. Louis Oktoberfest: 1700 S 8th St, St. Louis, MO 63104, United States
Oktoberfest Missouri History
Missouri's Oktoberfest celebrations take inspiration from German tradition but have a unique character. Hermann, a town rich in German heritage in Missouri, has held its Oktoberfest for many years. From there, many new venues opened for the Bavarian Beerfest celebrations. Live music, parades, and traditional dance performances create a vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular festival for both residents and visitors.
Some Major Oktoberfest Celebrations In Missouri
Missouri celebrated the German Beerfest the way it's meant to be every year with full zeal and zest. It's worth noting that all the Oktoberfest celebrations in Missouri spread throughout the state, giving everyone a chance to partake in Bavarian celebrations in their neighbourhood.
Hermann Oktoberfest, Missouri
Hermann Oktoberfest is an unforgettable experience with live music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks. The echos of the lively tunes through the town and the local wineries and restaurants are must-seen visuals. Oktoberfest Hermann offers a variety of options, from brat stands to locally crafted beer, wine, and spirits scattered throughout the area.
Like any other Oktoberfest, this venue also has the infectious beats of a polka tune by the renowned Loehnig German Band. The Performances are on the first four Saturday afternoons in October at the Historic Festhalle in the Hermannhof Inn. With roots tracing back to the late 1970s, the Loehnig German Band is a seasoned performer specializing in German folk music, including waltzes, polkas, schottisches, vocals, and even yodeling. Their speciality also includes captivating Slovenian and Czech music selections played on the button-box accordion.
Soulard, St. Louis Oktoberfest, Missouri
The annual Soulard Oktoberfest in St. Louis, Missouri, is a lively celebration of German culture held on the second weekend of October at the Soulard Farmers Market Plaza. Admission is free and offers a variety of entertainment, including live music from German bands, authentic German food vendors, a wine garden, and multiple beer stands. Souvenir steins are available for purchase. For an enhanced experience, the Budweiser Bier Hall Tent offers exclusive entertainment, a commemorative Stein, and a premium beer selection (all for a separate admission fee). This family-friendly event (except for the Bier Hall Tent, which is 21+) runs from 4 pm to 11 pm on Friday and 11 am to 10 pm on Saturday.
Date and Time of Oktoberfest Missouri
Oktoberfest in Missouri is held at different times and dates around the month of October, mostly allowing everyone to attend multiple Beerfest celebrations.
- Hermann Oktoberfest: October (one-day celebration)
- Soulard, St. Louis Oktoberfest: October (two-day celebration)
Oktoberfest Missouri Tickets & Reservations
While Oktoberfest celebrations are prevalent across Missouri in the fall, some events may require tickets or reservations for entry or specific activities. Information regarding ticketing and reservations varies depending on the location of the event. To ensure a smooth experience, research the specific Oktoberfest you plan to attend by visiting the host's website or social media pages like Facebook. These channels will detail any ticketing or reservation procedures, allowing you to plan accordingly and secure your spot for a fun-filled celebration.
Dress Code for Oktoberfest Missouri
Like any Oktoberfest destination, Missouri has no strict Beeerfest dress code. Traditional Bavarian attire like dirndls and lederhosen are the unofficial dress codes for any Bavarian Oktoberfest celebration in Missouri. Feel free to add a local touch with a Missouri twist by wearing men’s lederhosen with a t-shirt or polo. Wear what makes you feel comfortable and ready to have fun at the Beer festival!
Missouri Oktoberfest Food and Drink
Oktoberfest Missouri celebrates Bavarian culture through food, beer, and merriment with vibrant energy. The food served mirrors the soul of Oktoberfest Munich.
German Dishes
- Sausages (bratwurst (pork sausage), knackwurst (garlic sausage), and weisswurst (white sausage)
- Pretzels
- Schnitzel
- Sauerbraten
- Potato Dishes (German potato salad, potato pancakes, and dumplings.)
Desserts
warm apple strudel
Black Forest Cake
Beverages
- German Beers
- Local Bre
- Non-alcoholic options (soft drinks, coffee, and water)
Oktoberfest Oklahoma Entertainment Options
Missouri's Oktoberfest celebrations offer a vibrant blend of traditional German entertainment and local flair. Expect to be entertained by lively oom-pah bands playing energetic polkas and other festive tunes. Many festivals also feature yodeling demonstrations, showcasing this unique vocal talent. Additionally, some celebrations host authentic folk dancing performances, allowing you to witness the cultural dances in their full regalia.
Tips For Enjoying Oktoberfest Missouri Most
- Prost your way through authentic German beers and indulge in hearty Bavarian fare.
- Embrace the lively atmosphere, sing along to traditional music, and don your lederhosen!
- Participate in fun games and contests, and soak up the festive spirit.
- Don't miss the chance to witness the ceremonial keg tapping and join in the celebratory cheers.
- Plan your visit around your favourite events, whether it's a stein-hoisting competition or a yodeling contest.