It’s never too early to start planning for your next Oktoberfest. Celebrating the seasons changing and having some drinks with your friends could be in the cards for you next September and October. Not everyone can make their way to Munich, Germany to celebrate the authentic Oktoberfest, but there are many places in the United States that offer celebrations that compare to Germany.
San Francisco, California
Oktoberfest by the Bay holds the festival of Munich’s tradition of music, dancing, food, and of course, beer. Experience German music and food during the three days. Bavarian bands and dancers travel to California to perform traditional entertainment of Germany. The cost of admission gets you entry into the festival and entertainment. Food does cost extra so if you want to partake in traditional cuisine, bring along some cash!
Helen, Georgia
Though held in a small town, this Oktoberfest celebration is one of the oldest in the country. Almost 50 years this festival has been bringing people from all over to participate in their festivities. They last from the beginning of September to the end of October. The town transforms itself into a village in Germany. Many traditions such as authentic German foods, polka dancing, and music played by local musicians go on for the month, bringing many tourists to celebrate year after year.
La Crosse, Wisconsin
Like Helen, La Crosse holds the position of being one of the longest-running Oktoberfest. With parades and everyone dressed up in Lederhosen and Dirndls it’s hard to imagine passing on this event. There is one festival but they have two locations. The main location is the Southside Grounds which holds the main office, two music venues, and their Biergarten. The Northside Grounds offers one entertainment venue, food vendors, and carnival. They even offer a shuttle service between the two grounds!
Denver, Colorado
Denver takes the festivities to a whole new level but they don’t hold the same traditional values as other Oktoberfests. You won’t find the traditional clothes, music, and dancing as you would at other locations. Many still flock in to celebrate this six-day festival. The Oktoberfest attracts around 350,000 people with its beer and music from new artists.
Amana Colonies, Iowa
The festival begins with the official keg tapping ceremony. From that point on, there are parades, games, contests, foods, and drinking! Hosting a ton of activities and live entertainment, brings people from all over the United States. Check out Amana Colonies during this fall season and participate in all the events and competitions!