The USA is renowned for its diversity, welcoming people worldwide to experience various cultures without needing a passport. A study has revealed that 49 million German expats reside in America, comprising 17% of the US population. Oktoberfest is celebrated across the country with beer, bratwurst, and lederhosen.
In this blog post, I will guide you through the best place to celebrate Oktoberfest in USA. We will also discuss when is Oktoberfest celebrated in the USA. These festivities showcase the vast and diverse ways the German cultural heritage is embraced.
Pro Tip: Oktoberfest is a synonym for beer and Bavarian outfits. Don the best German outfit from Lederhosens to enjoy your beer.
Best Place to Celebrate Oktoberfest in USA
I have jotted down some of the famous places to celebrate Oktoberfest in the USA. Some of these celebrations account for the biggest Volksfest from around the world.
Oktoberfest Zinzinnati - Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati, Ohio, holds one of the country's largest Oktoberfest festivals. Oktoberfest Zinzinnati attracts over 700,000 tourists yearly, making it an absolute must for beer lovers. The festival is synonymous with a vast beer variety, traditional German music, and dance acts.
Bratwurst and Sauerkraut Paradise
Are you a fan of German food? If yes, you won't be disappointed here at Oktoberfest Zinzinnati. It holds a record of serving up to 3,600 pounds of sauerkraut and 80,000 bratwurst, making it a food lover's paradise.
Denver Oktoberfest - Denver, Colorado
Denver Oktoberfest takes the festivities to a new level - quite literally! The Mile High City offers a unique Oktoberfest experience as it houses 150 breweries. This event features keg bowling, wiener dog races, Stein hoisting competitions, and live music. The view of the Rocky Mountains serves as the backdrop for the event.
Costume Contests
One of the highlights of Denver Oktoberfest is the costume contest. Attendees go all out with their outfits, so expect to see plenty of lederhosen and dirndls. Don't forget to join in the fun and buy your best fit at Lederhosens!
Did you Know? When is Oktoberfest celebrated in USA? It takes place in October in the USA, unlike Munich, where festivity begins in September.
Oktoberfest by the Bay - San Francisco, California
If you're on the West Coast, Oktoberfest by the Bay in San Francisco is a great place to experience Bavarian culture. Enjoy traditional beer, pretzels, and lively music by the waterfront.
Golden Gate Views
What sets Oktoberfest by the Bay apart is its stunning location. With views of the Golden Gate Bridge in the background, it offers a picturesque setting for your Oktoberfest celebration.
Oktoberfest Leavenworth, Washington
After The Great Economic Depression, Leavenworth was rebranded as a quaint alpine village. Thus, the Bavarian Oktoberfest celebration originated. Oktoberfest Leavenworth, Washington, is a family-friendly Oktoberfest celebration. While there's plenty of beer for the adults, kids can enjoy carnival rides, games, and a pumpkin patch.
Dachshund Races
One of the unique attractions at Oktoberfest Leavenworth is the Dachshund Races. Watch these adorable dogs race to the finish line while you enjoy your brew.
Oktoberfest Chicago - Chicago, Illinois
Chicago's Oktoberfest is a vibrant and authentic celebration of German culture. The Windy City embraces Oktoberfest with open arms, offering a wide range of German beers and cuisine in the West Lakeview area.
Kid Kinderfest
At Oktoberfest Chicago, you can dance the night away to traditional German music. The lively atmosphere and communal spirit make it an event to remember. The kid kinder fest makes this event more attractive for families. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., engaging activities are planned for the kids, including face painting, art and crafts.
Oktoberfest USA Frequently Asked Questions
What is Oktoberfest?
Oktoberfest is a world-famous annual beer festival that originated in Munich, Germany and is now celebrated in many countries, including the United States.When does Oktoberfest typically take place?
Oktoberfest usually runs for 16 days, starting in late September and continuing into the first weekend of October. In the USA, it lasts for a day or 2 only.When is Oktoberfest celebrated in USA?
Oktoberfest celebration takes place in October in the USA. You can expect various German beers, traditional food like sausages and pretzels, live music, and cultural performances.Are Oktoberfest celebrations family-friendly?
Some Oktoberfest events, like Oktoberfest Northwest in Puyallup, Washington, are family-friendly and offer activities for children. However, others are primarily focused on adult festivities.Can I attend Oktoberfest in the USA if I'm not of German descent?
Absolutely! Oktoberfest celebrations in the USA are open to people of all backgrounds who want to enjoy the festivities and experience German culture.