Courtesy of Twin Cities Oktoberfest
As we all transition into fall, Oktoberfest celebrations are springing up all across Minnesota. Here are some of the best our state has to offer.
Duluth Oktoberfestival at Bayfront, Sept. 18-20
It isn’t Oktoberfest without small dogs racing while heavy barrels are treated like footballs. The Duluth Oktoberfestival brings Dachshund racing, barrel tossing, stein holding, and more to the Bayfront.
Forgotten Star Brewing Co., Fridley, Sept 18-20
If you are hungry and draped in lederhosen, you might want to head to Forgotten Star Brewing Co. in Fridley to compete in their Oktoberfest eating and costume contests. There are also kids activities to distract your children while you gorge yourself in those German overalls.
Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter, Stillwater, Sept. 18-20 and 25-27
Do you want to drink beers imported directly from Munich, Germany while playing Hammer-Schlagen and eating bratwursts and pretzels? Then go to Gasthaus’ Oktoberfest celebration.
The Last Punktoberfest, Rochester, Sept. 25-26
Is the average Oktoberfest celebration too quiet and lacking in leather and studs for your taste? Then Punktoberfest at Thesis Beer Project in Rochester might be more your speed. The final Punktoberfest will feature 17 bands across two days. Doors open at 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 and at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26.
Little Thistle’s Oktoberfest, Rochester, Sept. 26
Special glasses, drinks, live music, and activities all day at Little Thistle Brewing Co. in Rochester.
Moorhead Sausagefest, Sept. 26
What’s a good Oktoberfest celebration without some sausage? Quench your craving for German sausage at the First Presbyterian Church of Moorhead from 2:30-8 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26.
New Ulm Oktoberfest, Oct. 2-3 and 9-10
New Ulm’s award-winning Oktoberfest is a staple of the season. Catch the Minnesota Steinholding Championship Final, as competitors look to advance to the National Championship. Also, you know, beer and sausage galore.
Gull Lake Bar Crawl, Oct. 3
The 15th Annual Gull Lake Oktoberfest Pub Crawl will shepherd you through Brainerd and into the arms of local beer, sausage, and live music purveyors. With your ticket, you can enjoy an unlimited shuttle service between bars, a commemorative stein, and of course, beer samples at each location.
Courtesy of Twin Cities Oktoberfest
Twin Cities Oktoberfest, Oct. 9-10
Didn’t get enough State Fair action this year? You’re in luck, as Twin Cities Oktoberfest is held on the MN State Fairgrounds, featuring more than 20 different beers from local breweries and plenty of entertainment. Plus, you could compete in a Steinholding competition for charity.
