When autumn settles in and the air sharpens with crispness, the Twin Cities and beyond come alive with the sounds of polka, the scent of sizzling brats, and the unmistakable clink of steins. Oktoberfest in Minnesota is not just about beer—it’s a joyful blend of Bavarian tradition, community gathering, and fall celebration. From sprawling fairground tents to cozy neighborhood taprooms, there’s a festival for every kind of reveler. Below, we’ve organized the state’s most exciting Oktoberfest celebrations: the marquee headliners, a week-by-week guide to metro festivities, and a roundup of destination-worthy road trips.
If you want to see everything in calendar form, check out our 2025 Oktoberfest Calendar located here.
The Headliners: Must-Visit Fests for the Full Oktoberfest Experience
For those seeking the quintessential Oktoberfest atmosphere, a few key events stand out for their scale, tradition, and lively entertainment.
Fulton Brewing’s Oktoberfest — September 19–20 & 26–27
2450 NE 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55418
Every fall, Fulton transforms its North East Minneapolis home into one of the largest Oktoberfest parties in the city. Under massive tents, festivalgoers pack in for back-to-back weekends of nonstop live music, an armada of food trucks, and a lineup of beers that pairs perfectly with bratwurst and pretzels. The vibe is rowdy yet welcoming, and the energy builds well into the night as friends clink steins and dance together on the asphalt. All ages are welcome, though 21+ is required to drink. More info at fultonbeer.com.
St. Paul Oktoberfest — September 12–13
Germanic-American Institute, 301 Summit Ave, Saint Paul, MN 55102
Hosted by the Germanic-American Institute, this festival embraces its heritage wholeheartedly. Visitors can expect Paulaner direct from Munich alongside bratwurst from Gerhard’s, soft pretzels from Aki’s BreadHaus, and plenty of traditional dancing and music courtesy of the Bavarian Musikmeisters and other ensembles. Spread out across the GAI’s historic hilltop campus, the event feels authentic and community-driven, with games and children’s activities rounding it out. Admission is free, with a wristband required for alcohol purchases. More info at gaimn.com.
Twin Cities Oktoberfest — October 3–4
Progress Center, Minnesota State Fairgrounds, 1265 Snelling Ave N, Saint Paul, MN 55108
Ranked among the top Oktoberfests in the nation, Twin Cities Oktoberfest is the crown jewel of metro celebrations. Now in its 15th year, it showcases local breweries like Utepils, Pryes, Lift Bridge, and Minneapolis Cider Company while also featuring hearty food from Gerhard’s Brats, Aki’s BreadHaus, and Sara’s Tipsy Pies. The entertainment is just as rich, with polka, folk bands, and S.G. Edelweiss dancers filling the Progress Center with music and movement. Admission to the grounds is free, with a wristband required to consume alcohol. All ages are welcome. More info at tcoktoberfest.com.
Utepils Brewing’s Oktoberfest — September 19–20 & 26–27
225 Thomas Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55405
True to its European brewing roots, Utepils delivers an Oktoberfest that feels straight out of Munich. Over two consecutive weekends, guests can join stein-holding competitions, pretzel-eating contests, and even vow renewal ceremonies. Live music sets the tone throughout, while Utepils’ lagers and seasonal Märzen flow freely. The family-friendly atmosphere, complete with contests for kids, makes it one of the most inclusive celebrations in the metro. Free to attend. More info at utepilsbrewing.com.
A Brewery Tour of Oktoberfests in the Twin Cities: More Ways to Prost!
Beyond the largest festivals, a vibrant tapestry of Oktoberfest celebrations can be found at local breweries, each offering its own unique character and handcrafted lagers.
August Kickoff
Insight Brewing’s Augtoberfest — Saturday, August 16
2821 E Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55413
For those who just can’t wait until September, Insight’s Augtoberfest offers an early start to the season. Expect German bands, brats sizzling on the grill courtesy of Gerhard’s, Aki’s iconic pretzels, and plenty of stein-hoisting competitions to get the party going. It’s a lively, single-day bash that feels like a teaser trailer for the rest of Oktoberfest season. All ages are welcome, though 21+ to drink. More info at insightbrewing.com.
Week of September 6–13
Rail Werks Brewing Depot’s Oktoberfest — Saturday, September 6 (11 a.m. start)
77 13th Ave NE, Columbia Heights, MN 55421
Columbia Heights’ rail depot-inspired brewery kicks off the season with a brunch party that flows seamlessly into a day of food, beer, and community. Guests can expect live music throughout the afternoon, festive games, and plenty of their Märzen-style brew. It’s a small but spirited way to mark the beginning of Oktoberfest season. More info at railwerksbrewing.com.
Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter Oktoberfest — September 12–14 & September 19–21
8390 Lofton Ave N, Stillwater, MN 55082
Set in a wooded clearing outside Stillwater, the Gasthaus feels like a slice of Bavaria tucked into Minnesota. Its Oktoberfest spans two weekends and features imported German beers like Paulaner, Hacker-Pschorr, and Hofbräu, along with hearty fare such as schnitzel and brats. Hammerschlagen, polka dancing, and traditional music make this one of the most immersive Oktoberfests in the region. Admission typically $10. All ages welcome. More info at gasthausbavarianhunter.com.
Fair State Brewing Cooperative’s Co-optoberfest — Saturday, September 13
2506 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418
Both an anniversary celebration and an Oktoberfest, Co-optoberfest is Fair State’s annual blowout. Fest-goers can expect polka tunes, stein-hoisting competitions, limited beer releases, and even quirky offerings like flash tattoos. The event always draws a loyal crowd from across the city, turning Central Avenue into a party block. More info at fairstate.coop.
Omni Brewing Co. Oktoberfests — Saturday, September 13
Locations: Maple Grove, Rosemount, and Victoria
Why stop at one Oktoberfest when you can have three? Omni Brewing Co. brings the party to each of its metro locations simultaneously, with live bands, stein-holding contests, lederhosen competitions, and plenty of special beer releases to go around. It’s an ambitious, city-spanning approach that lets you pick your favorite taproom—or try to hit them all. Free to attend; 21+ to drink. More info at omnibrewing.com.
Ullsperger Brewing’s Oktoberfest — Saturday, September 13 (Noon–10 p.m.)
6004 Excelsior Blvd, St. Louis Park, MN 55416
St. Louis Park’s cozy taproom throws open its doors and parking lot for a day of festivities. Guests can expect classic Oktoberfest games like Hammer & Log, football streaming on the TV, plenty of snacks, and, of course, the release of Ullsperger’s Oktoberfest beer. With its community-focused vibe, it’s a welcoming way to spend a Saturday. More info at ullspergerbrewing.com.
Week of September 14–20
Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter Oktoberfest — September 12–14 & September 19–21
8390 Lofton Ave N, Stillwater, MN 55082
Set in a wooded clearing outside Stillwater, the Gasthaus feels like a slice of Bavaria tucked into Minnesota. Its Oktoberfest spans two weekends and features imported German beers like Paulaner, Hacker-Pschorr, and Hofbräu, along with hearty fare such as schnitzel and brats. Hammerschlagen, polka dancing, and traditional music make this one of the most immersive Oktoberfests in the region. Admission typically $10. All ages welcome. More info at gasthausbavarianhunter.com.
Marketoberfest at The Market at Malcolm Yards — Sunday, September 14
501 30th Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414
The Market at Malcolm Yards hosts a beer-hall-style celebration featuring a rotating list of craft beers, limited releases, and the hall’s renowned food vendors. Expect a lively, bustling environment where guests can sample their way through seasonal pours while enjoying the social atmosphere of the market. More info at https://malcolmyards.market/event/marketober-2025/.
Pryes Brewing Co.’s Pryesfest — Weekends September 19–October 3
1401 W River Rd N, Minneapolis, MN 55411
Pryesfest stretches over three weekends, with each day offering something new. Fridays (5–9 p.m.) bring live music, pretzels, and a bustling stein garden. Saturdays (noon–9 p.m.) feature family-friendly activities like goat cuddles, pumpkin painting, and crafts alongside live bands. Sundays (noon–6 p.m.) highlight caricature artists, face painting, and more music, making this one of the most varied Oktoberfest programs in the metro. More info at pryesbrewing.com.
Wicked Wort Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest — September 19–20 (11 a.m. – 11 p.m.)
4165 W Broadway Ave, Robbinsdale, MN 55422
Including a fall market, live music from Jimmi & the Band of Souls, Will Durie and Jack Knife & the Sharps, bingo, and more, Wicked Wort Brewing Co. will be celebrating Oktoberfest at their Robbinsdale taproom in style. More info at wickedwortbrewingco.com.
Back Channel Brewing Company’s Backtoberfest — Saturday, September 20
4787 Shoreline Dr, Spring Park, MN 55384
Our lakeside friends at Back Channel Brewing Company is back this year with their Backtoberfest celebration on September 20. There will be their annual bags tournament, stein holding, best dressed contests, games, food and more – including their iconic Kick The Pickle contest! More info at backchannelbrewing.com.
Bad Weather Brewing Company’s Croctoberfest — Saturday, September 20 (Noon–8 p.m.)
414 7th St W, Saint Paul, MN 55102
One of the metro’s most unique Oktoberfests, Croctoberfest pairs steins of Festbier with live crocodiles and alligators thanks to its partnership with the Science Museum of Minnesota. Families can explore a mini-museum exhibit, enjoy a bounce house for the kids, grab a cone from MN Nice Cream, and of course, sip Bad Weather’s German-inspired brews. More info at badweatherbrewery.com.
Bauhaus Brew Labs’ Schwandtoberfest — Saturday, September 20
1315 Tyler St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413
Bauhaus infuses its signature quirky style into Oktoberfest with Schwandtoberfest. Expect a full day of live bands, steins brimming with Haus-brewed lagers, German food vendors, and a festive, colorful crowd. It’s one of Northeast’s loudest, liveliest parties of the season. More info at bauhausbrewlabs.com.
Broken Clock Brewing Cooperative’s Clocktoberfest — Saturday, September 20 (2:30–10 p.m.)
3134 California St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418
Broken Clock’s co-op taproom turns into a day-long festival of music, beer, and camaraderie. From mid-afternoon until late evening, live bands keep the energy high while food trucks, axe throwing, and a hearty lineup of seasonal beers keep the crowd happy. Free to attend, 21+ to drink. More info at brokenclockbrew.com.
Heavy Rotation Brewing Company’s Heavyfest — Saturday, September 20 (12–10 p.m.)
9801 Xenia Ave N #105, Brooklyn Park, MN 55443
Brooklyn Park’s music-focused brewery, Heavy Rotation, will be bringing the Fest to their taproom on September 20th. You can expect food, beer and live music from the Low Down Band. More info at the Event’s Facebook Page.
Nine Mile Brewing’s Oktoberfest — Saturday, September 20 (8 a.m.–11 p.m.)
9555 James Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55431
Bloomington’s Oktoberfest is an all-day affair with activities for every age group. The morning starts with family-friendly fun, then shifts into contests like cornhole and pretzel eating. As the day stretches into night, live polka music from the Jolly Ramblers sets the soundtrack. Food trucks and seasonal beers keep everyone fueled. All ages are welcome; 21+ to drink. More info at 9milebrewing.com.
Week of September 21–27
Forgotten Star Brewing’s Oktoberfest — Friday–Sunday, September 19–21
38 Northern Stacks Dr, Fridley, MN 55421
Forgotten Star’s three-day festival is packed with activity. Live music fills the air all weekend, while contests like stein-holding and costume competitions keep the crowd engaged. Food trucks and the brewery’s own lineup of German-inspired beers add plenty of flavor, and Sunday features a dedicated “Kidtoberfest” with family-friendly games and activities. It’s a true community celebration with something for everyone. More info at forgottenstarbrewing.com.
Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter Oktoberfest — September 12–14 & September 19–21
8390 Lofton Ave N, Stillwater, MN 55082
Set in a wooded clearing outside Stillwater, the Gasthaus feels like a slice of Bavaria tucked into Minnesota. Its Oktoberfest spans two weekends and features imported German beers like Paulaner, Hacker-Pschorr, and Hofbräu, along with hearty fare such as schnitzel and brats. Hammerschlagen, polka dancing, and traditional music make this one of the most immersive Oktoberfests in the region. Admission typically $10. All ages welcome. More info at gasthausbavarianhunter.com.
Pryes Brewing Co.’s Pryesfest — Weekends September 19–October 3
1401 W River Rd N, Minneapolis, MN 55411
Pryesfest stretches over three weekends, with each day offering something new. Fridays (5–9 p.m.) bring live music, pretzels, and a bustling stein garden. Saturdays (noon–9 p.m.) feature family-friendly activities like goat cuddles, pumpkin painting, and crafts alongside live bands. Sundays (noon–6 p.m.) highlight caricature artists, face painting, and more music, making this one of the most varied Oktoberfest programs in the metro. More info at pryesbrewing.com.
River Siren Brewing’s Rocktoberfest — September 26–September 27
225 Main St N, Stillwater, MN 55082
Downtown Stillwater’s River Siren Brewing is back this year with their two day celebration, Rocktoberfest. Details aren’t fully available yet, but expect great beer and live music. More info at riversirenbrewing.com.
Padraigs Brewing’s Not-Oberfest — September 26–28
2029 W Broadway Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55411
The cheekily named “Not-Oberfest” has become Padraigs’ annual fall bash. While details for 2025 are still under wraps, past editions have included specialty beer releases, live music, and plenty of games in a lively taproom atmosphere. Expect the same welcoming, neighborhood energy when this year’s details are announced. More info at padraigsbrewing.com.
Luce Line Brewing Co. Oktoberfest — September 26–October 4
12901 16th Ave N, Plymouth, MN 55441
Luce Line’s Oktoberfest is a true marathon, running more than a week with daily events. Guests can expect rotating food trucks, live music, games, and contests scattered throughout the celebration. Each day brings a new reason to return, making it a flexible and festive option for anyone in the western suburbs. Free to attend. More info at lucelinebrewing.com.
Big Wood Brewery’s Oktimberfest — Saturday, September 27 (12–11:55 p.m.)
3429 Centerville Road, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127
Big Wood Brewery brings its signature woodsy vibe to Oktoberfest season with “Oktimberfest,” a fall celebration full of small-town charm. Expect plenty of Big Wood’s beers on tap, including their Märzen seasonal, along with live music, food trucks, and autumn-themed games. The brewery’s newer and larger Vadnais Heights location makes it a perfect spot to gather with friends, raise a stein, and toast the season. Free to attend; 21+ to drink. More info at bigwoodbrewery.com.
Copperwing Distillery’s Oktanefest — Saturday, September 27
6409 Cambridge St, St. Louis Park, MN 55426
Copperwing Distillery is putting its own Wunderbar spin on Oktoberfest with the first annual Oktanefest! This celebration takes over the Libations District of St. Louis Park, blending craft cocktails, roaring über-autos, and a mix of nicht-so-traditionell fun. For those craving a bit more traditional Gemütlichkeit, our Neighbor Haggard Barrel will have plenty of bier und brats to keep the steins clinking. Guests can expect schnell cars, raffles, music, competitions, and herrlich drinks while mingling with vendors from across the district. The fest runs from 1pm – 6pm, with the autoschau revving up from 2pm – 4pm. More info at http://copperwingdistillery.com
Haggard Barrel Brewing’s Oktoberfest — Saturday, September 27 (1 p.m.–6 p.m.)
6413 Cambridge St, St. Louis Park, MN 55426
St. Louis Park’s newest brewery and skate punks, Haggard Barrel Brewing, are hosting their inaugural Oktoberfest celebration at the taproom on September 27th from 1-6 p.m. There will be live music, hammer-in-wood games, and plenty of brats and kraut for you to enjoy. Put on your best lederhosen and enjoy drink specials! More info at Haggard Barrel’s Instagram Post.
Lakeville Brewing Co. Oktoberfest — Saturday, September 27 (4–8 p.m.)
8790 Upper 208th St W, Lakeville, MN 55044
Lakeville Brewing sets up a tent in the heart of downtown for an evening of beer, food, and live polka music. Families gather for a fun night out while adults enjoy steins of seasonal Märzen and other fall releases. With its welcoming vibe and easygoing length, it’s an accessible Oktoberfest stop in the south metro. More info at lakevillebrewing.com and the Event Facebook Page.
Shorewood, MN’s Oktoberfest — Saturday, September 27 (1 p.m.–3 p.m.)
Shorewood Community & Event Center, 5735 Country Club Rd, Shorewood, MN 55331
Shorewood’s community Oktoberfest blends traditional German cheer with a lakeside suburban setting. Attendees can look forward to live music, German-style beer and food, and plenty of activities for families. With its emphasis on community fun, it’s an accessible and welcoming way to celebrate the season without heading downtown. Free to attend; family-friendly. Once the event ends at Badger Park you can head over to the celebration at the Excelsior American Legion Post 259 (see below for details). More info at shorewoodmn.gov
Wooden Hill Brewing Co. Hill Harvest Fest — Saturday, September 27
7421 Bush Lake Rd, Edina, MN 55439
Edina’s Wooden Hill Brewing hosts its first-ever fall festival with a focus on community and families. Adoptable dogs from a local rescue, a makers market featuring regional artisans, and giveaways run alongside food and drink specials in the taproom. The addition of seasonal beer releases ties the event into Oktoberfest tradition. Free to attend. More info at woodenhillbrewing.com.
Wandering Leaf Brewing Co. Oktoberfest & Equinox Party — Saturday, September 27 (Noon–10 p.m.)
688 Minnehaha Ave E, Saint Paul, MN 55106
Wandering Leaf Brewing throws its second annual Oktoberfest and Equinox Party with something for everyone. Two special-release beers are tapped for the occasion, while multiple food trucks keep guests well-fed. Live music and games for both kids and adults make it a festive all-day affair, capped off with souvenir steins that include two drink fills. Free to attend; 21+ to drink. More info at wanderingleafbrewing.com.
Badger Hill Brewing’s Shaktoberfest — Saturday, September 27 (11 a.m.–10 p.m.)
4571 Valley Industrial Blvd S, Shakopee, MN 55379
Shaktoberfest at Badger Hill is a full-day affair packed with activities. The day starts with a fun run and rolls into a schedule featuring dunk-the-brewer contests, face painting for kids, plenty of games, and live music. Seasonal beers flow from open to close, creating a vibrant, family-friendly environment that has something for everyone. Free to attend. More info at badgerhillbrewing.com.
Brühaven Craft Co. Oktoberfest — Saturday, September 27 (2–10 p.m.)
2422 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418
Brühaven’s Oktoberfest channels classic German celebration into a cozy neighborhood taproom setting. The event features contests, live music, and the release of seasonal beers. Guests can expect pretzels, food trucks, and special limited-edition glassware to commemorate the day. More info at bruhaven.com.
Minnesota Renaissance Festival: Oktoberfest Weekend — September 27–28
12364 Chestnut Blvd, Shakopee, MN 55379
The Minnesota Renaissance Festival closes its season with an Oktoberfest-themed weekend, where Bavarian cheer meets medieval spectacle. Visitors can enjoy jousting tournaments, artisan vendors, costumed performers, and themed games while raising a stein with King Henry. It’s a whimsical blend of two worlds, offering something entirely different from traditional Oktoberfests. Tickets required. More info at renaissancefest.com.
Excelsior American Legion’s Lake Minnetonka Oktoberfest — Saturday, September 27
24450 Smithtown Rd, Excelsior, MN 55331
The shores of Lake Minnetonka set the stage for this family-friendly Oktoberfest at the Excelsior American Legion Post 259. Guests can enjoy food, drinks, music, and community activities in a relaxed lakeside atmosphere. It’s a low-key but charming celebration perfect for families and locals alike. More info at americanlegion259.org.
Week of September 28–October 4
Twin Cities Oktoberfest — October 3–4
(See Headliners above.)
Arbeiter Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest — Saturday, October 4
3038 Minnehaha Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55406
South Minneapolis’s Arbeiter Brewing joins the party with its own Oktoberfest celebration. While full details are still to come, guests can expect a festive taproom atmosphere, seasonal lagers, and food to pair with the brewery’s creative lineup. The event captures Arbeiter’s community-driven spirit in a fun, welcoming setting. More details and info to come at arbeiterbrewing.com.
Worth the Drive: Destination Oktoberfests
For a truly immersive experience, consider a short trip to one of these standout celebrations.
Week of September 6–13
Drekker Brewing’s Drekkerfest — September 12-13
1666 1st Ave N, Fargo, ND 58102
Just across the border in Fargo, ND, Drekker Brewing transforms its Brewhalla complex into a massive Oktoberfest-inspired bash. Drekkerfest blends Bavarian tradition with the brewery’s offbeat creativity, offering 11 specialty collaboration beer releases, live bands including the superstar band, Motion City Soundtrack, professional wrestling, tattoos, tons of food and games, and a festive crowd that fills the sprawling space. It’s a high-energy, music-filled celebration that makes the road trip north absolutely worth it. Free to attend; 21+ to drink. More info at drekkerbrewing.com/events/
Duluth Oktoberfestival — September 12–14
Bayfront Festival Park, 350 Harbor Dr, Duluth, MN 55802
One of the largest Oktoberfests in the state, Duluth’s waterfront celebration is packed with attractions. From stein-holding and barrel tosses to dachshund races and a kids’ zone, there’s no shortage of fun. Add helicopter rides, an arts and crafts market, and nonstop music against the backdrop of Lake Superior, and you’ve got a one-of-a-kind fall destination. More info at duluthoktoberfestival.com.
LTS Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest – September 13 (4 p.m.-8 p.m.)
2001 32nd Ave NW, Rochester, MN 55901
LTS Brewing Company is bringing Oktoberfest celebrations to their Rochester taproom. Live music, adoptable dogs, and plenty of food options are all waiting for you to enjoy. More info at ltsbrewing.com
Portage Brewing Company’s Seasons Change Oktoberfest Celebration – September 13
2001 32nd Ave NW, Rochester, MN 55901
Our friends up north in Walker, MN will be throwing their annual celebration of the seasons changing on September 13 at their taproom. With live music and beer pouring – their Oktoberfest, Red IPA and Maple Pastry Stout – along with great food, it’s the perfect time to get out and celebrate our Minnesotan seasons. As a bonus, Walker’s Ethnic Fest celebration will also be going on all day so you can enjoy double the fun! More info at portagebeer.com
Week of September 14–20
Dundas Oktoberfest — Saturday, September 20 (Noon–6:30 p.m.)
Downtown Dundas, 100 Railway St, Dundas, MN 55019
Dundas brings big Bavarian energy to small-town Minnesota. Live music fills the day, highlighted by the Bavarian Musikmeisters, while local food vendors and breweries keep glasses and plates full. Family activities and a collector car and motorcycle show add to the charm. Free to attend; $5 wristband to purchase alcohol. More info at dundasoktoberfest.com.
Ursa Minor Brewing Oktoberfest — Thursday, September 18–Sunday, September 21
2415 W Superior St, Duluth, MN 55806
Ursa Minor’s four-day Oktoberfest is one of Duluth’s biggest beer parties of the year. The celebration features live music each day, stein-holding contests, free face painting, and quirky activities like German trivia and spelling bees. Sunday is dedicated entirely to kids and families, while the rest of the weekend keeps the steins flowing and the wood-fired pizzas hot. Free to attend and open to all ages, with 21+ required to drink. More info at ursaminorbrewing.com
Week of September 21–27
Jack Pine Brewery’s Jacktoberfest — September 22–27 (Main day Saturday, Sept 27)
15593 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN 56425
A full week of fun culminates in a Saturday blowout at Jack Pine Brewing. Throughout the week, guests can enjoy smaller events like beer infusions and games, but the main event brings mugs for sale, food trucks, contests, beer poking, and live music. It’s a lakes area tradition that regulars look forward to every year. More info at jackpinebrewery.com/jacktoberfest.
Junkyard Brewing’s Junktoberfest — September 27-29
1416 1st Ave N, Moorhead, MN 56560
On the western edge of Minnesota, Junkyard Brewing throws its annual Junktoberfest, a party that’s as bold as the brewery itself. Expect one-of-a-kind seasonal beers, live music on an outdoor stage, food trucks serving hearty fare, and plenty of small-town energy that draws a loyal crowd year after year. With its creative lineup of lagers and the relaxed setting of Moorhead’s taproom and patio, Junktoberfest is a lively option for those willing to make the drive. Plus, there will be a brat feed with Feed My Starving Children! More info at junkyardbeer.com
Moose Lake Brewing Oktoberfest — Saturday, September 27
303 5th St, Moose Lake, MN 55767
Moose Lake Brewing’s 9th Annual Oktoberfest packs an entire day of festivity into the fall air. The party kicks off with a bean-bag tournament at 10 a.m., followed by games for both kids and adults, creating a true all-ages atmosphere. By late afternoon, the stakes rise with a Battle of the Bands at 5 p.m.—and this year’s headliner, Whiskey River, takes the main stage at 8 p.m. Add in seasonal beer, food trucks, live music, and the smiles, and it’s a full-scale community celebration. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door. More info at mooselakebrewing.com
Outstate Brewing’s Oktoberfest — Saturday, September 27 (5–10 p.m.)
324 S Cascade St, Fergus Falls, MN 56537
Fergus Falls’ Outstate Brewing puts on a lively evening Oktoberfest filled with music, food trucks, and a stein-holding competition. Their Märzen takes center stage, poured alongside other seasonal favorites. Tickets are $20 at the door, with presale options including a commemorative mug and first beer at a discount. More info at outstatebrewing.com.
Sleepy Eye Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest — Saturday, September 27
121 Main St W, Sleepy Eye, MN 56085
Sleepy Eye Brewing Co. will be throwing their Oktoberfest celebration at their taproom this year on September 27. Expect live music from The Deutsches Duo and The Josh Norman Musik Meisters, food trucks, and loads of fun. More info at the Event Instagram Post.
St. Joseph’s Rocktoberfest — Saturday, September 27 (2–10 p.m.)
Downtown St. Joseph, 25 College Ave N, St. Joseph, MN 56374
Blending Oktoberfest tradition with a rock music festival feel, Rocktoberfest offers big-stage music, stein-holding contests, and food trucks serving up hearty favorites. Local breweries tap special releases throughout the day. General admission is $15, with VIP upgrades available. Ages 21+. More info rocktoberfestmn.com.
Week of September 28–October 4
New Ulm Citywide Oktoberfest — October 3–11
Multiple venues across New Ulm
New Ulm embraces its nickname as “Minnesota’s Little Germany” with a full citywide celebration. From hotel ballrooms to downtown stages, and vineyards on the edge of town, Oktoberfest takes over nearly every corner of the city. Music, food, beer, and Bavarian traditions make it a pilgrimage-worthy destination for Oktoberfest lovers. More info at newulm.com.
Week of October 5–11
Earth Rider Brewery Oktoberfest — Saturday, October 11 (1–6 p.m.)
1715 N 3rd St, Superior, WI 54880
Earth Rider Brewery’s Cedar Lounge in Superior hosts its annual Oktoberfest with an afternoon of music, games, and plenty of lager. This year’s headliner, The Polkarobics, is a Duluth-based band delivering a high-energy mix of traditional polkas, waltzes, and playful beer-themed tunes. Expect a casual, welcoming vibe with no cover charge, perfect for soaking up the sounds of polka while enjoying freshly brewed beer. All ages welcome; 21+ to drink. More info at earthrider.beer
Schell’s Oktoberfest — Saturday, October 11
1860 Schell Rd, New Ulm, MN 56073
The historic August Schell Brewing Company hosts one of Minnesota’s most iconic Oktoberfests. Guests gather at the brewery for traditional games like stein-holding contests, live German music, and a food menu stacked with bratwursts and German potato salad. Schell’s Märzen is the star of the day, but the celebration also spills across New Ulm, with additional events downtown and at Morgan Creek Vineyards. More info at schellsbrewery.com.
Week of October 12–18
Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort Oktoberfest — October 17–18
25039 Tame Fish Lake Rd, Deerwood, MN 56444
A resort-style Oktoberfest with a classic up-north twist, Ruttger’s combines lakeside autumn scenery with hearty German buffets, dancing, and live music. Guests can book overnight packages to turn the festival into a weekend getaway, making it as relaxing as it is festive. More info at ruttgers.com.
22 Northmen Brewing Co. Oktoberfest — Saturday, October 18 (11 a.m.–7 p.m.)
6693 County Rd 34 NW, Alexandria, MN 56308
Paired with its sister winery, Carlos Creek, 22 Northmen’s Oktoberfest offers a day of beer, food, and fun in lakes country. Attendees can enjoy live bands, stein-holding contests, and seasonal releases in a spacious setting that blends rural charm with Bavarian tradition. Free admission. More info at 22northmen.com.
As the autumn season approaches, be sure to check the websites and social media pages of these and other local establishments for the most up-to-date information on their 2025 Oktoberfest plans. Whether you’re looking for a massive festival or a cozy brewery gathering, the Twin Cities metro area offers a stein full of opportunities to celebrate this cherished German tradition.
