There are more things to celebrate during the month of October than just Halloween. The tenth month of the year is also a time to celebrate Oktoberfest. Check out all the ways to celebrate in the Los Angeles area below!
Oktoberfest at Fairplex
When: October 4 – October 26
Every Friday and Saturday in October, the Fairplex transforms into a lively German celebration for Oktoberfest, complete with Bavarian music, beer, and the famous chicken dance. Feast on bratwurst, knockwurst, and sweet corn while enjoying authentic German beers at this 21+ event. The party atmosphere is enhanced by DJs, oompah bands, and the Das Kär Show, showcasing over 40 Volkswagen Beetles and other German-made cars. For those looking to double their fun, a “Boos & Brews” combo ticket is available for $30, offering entry to both Oktoberfest and Lights Out, the Fairplex’s other October attraction.
Oktoberfest at Wurstküche Venice
When: Until October 26
Starting on September 28, Wurstküche Venice kicks off three weekends of Bavarian festivities, including live music, lederhosen, and mouth-watering bites. Savor their unique rattlesnake and rabbit sausage topped with onions and peppers, and pair it with a variety of German and Belgian beers on draft. Yodeling and traditional German tunes create a fun, lively atmosphere. Each $50 ticket includes a signature Wurstküche beer mug and your first fill-up, with Saturday and Sunday start times offering multiple chances to join the celebration.
Old World Oktoberfest
When: Until November 3
Touted as “Orange County’s biggest party since 1977,” Old World Oktoberfest offers a Bavarian-inspired experience with ocean views. From September 8 through November 3, the festivities include “Shot Girls,” dancers, and live oompah bands every Wednesday to Sunday. The famous wiener dog races make a comeback at the kickoff event, with additional races scheduled throughout the season. While Friday and Saturday nights are reserved for the 21+ crowd (with a cover charge), families can join the fun on Saturday afternoons and select evenings, with free entry on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest
When: Until November 2
Escape to the mountains for Big Bear Lake’s annual Oktoberfest, running every weekend from September to early November. Enjoy authentic German beer, hearty knockwursts, and festive attire as the party unfolds. The event features multiple live bands, including four flown in from Germany, and plenty of entertainment. Don’t miss the stein-carrying contest, where one lucky participant will be crowned Oktoberfest Queen.
San Gabriel Dumpling & Beer Fest
When: October 4
Swap pretzels for dumplings at San Gabriel’s Dumpling & Beer Fest, held at the Mission Playhouse on October 4. Your entry includes a beer tasting wristband, giving you unlimited access to craft brews from 6 to 10 p.m. Satisfy your cravings with dumplings from various food trucks, while live DJs keep the party going all night. Families can enjoy arts and crafts stations for kids, making this a fun event for all ages.
Santa Anita Park’s Oktoberfest
When: October 12-20, 2024
Santa Anita Park combines horse racing with Oktoberfest fun over two weekends in October. Get in on the action with stein-holding contests, costume competitions, and plenty of beer and pretzels. Each $38 general admission ticket includes a mini stein and eight beer tastings, along with a $5 betting voucher, tip sheet, and access to grandstand seating. Opt for the $75 VIP group ticket for reserved picnic table seating and a $20 food voucher.
Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest
When: September 14 – October 27
Nestled in the “Alps of Southern California,” Lake Arrowhead’s Oktoberfest runs every weekend through October 27. The event features live German-American oompah bands, stein-holding contests, children’s games, and a daily sausage toss competition. Although there’s no entry fee, attendees can book picnic or pub tables for up-close views of the stage, with prices starting at $25 for Sunday reservations.
CraftoberFest at the Rose Bowl
When: October 5
On October 5, the Rose Bowl hosts CraftoberFest, an Oktoberfest-inspired event showcasing over 50 local craft breweries. This all-ages celebration offers unlimited craft beer and kombucha tastings with the purchase of a ticket, along with traditional Bavarian food like pretzels and bratwurst. Enjoy live music from Festmeister Hans and Die Sauerkrauts as you dance the day away. Upgrade to VIP for early entry and exclusive seating.