Major Oktoberfest celebrations in Wisconsin
La Crosse, Milwaukee, and other cities and towns in Wisconsin are considered the epicenter of the Oktoberfest celebration.
La Crosse Oktoberfest, Wisconsin
La Crosse Oktoberfest is an annual tradition in Wisconsin of a vibrant celebration of German heritage. It is consistently endorsed as one of the Midwest’s biggest and longest-running Oktoberfest events. This community festival, affectionately nicknamed “Das Beste” (The Best), has a rich history dating back to 1961. The celebration goes on for the four-day, held during the last week of September, spilling into the beginning of October, pulling over 150,000 enthusiastic attendeesThis Beerfest celebration is brimming with Gemütlichkeit (friendliness) as the spirit of Oktoberfest takes hold.Â
Some of the traditional highlights that this festival includes are the ceremonial tapping of the Golden Keg and lively sounds of polka music filling the air. In the festive atmosphere of the Biergarten, authentic German cuisine served by rows of vendors is enjoyed with a stein of frothy beer. Besides the culinary delights, a multitude of family-friendly activities await. This Oktoberfest celebration fosters community through cheering to support the four-pawed furry friends in the wiener dog races, the grandeur of two iconic parades, and thrilling rides at the carnival.
- La Crosse Oktoberfest Location: Oktoberfest Strasse, La Crosse, WI 54601, United States
- La Crosse Oktoberfest Date: September (four-day celebration)
Milwaukee Oktoberfest, Wisconsin
Milwaukee Oktoberfest is a lively three-day celebration of Bavarian culture, held annually over the first weekend of October at Cathedral Square Park in downtown Milwaukee. This free-to-enter event (except for some table reservations) has a vibrant atmosphere filled with traditional German entertainment and delicious food. Oktoberfesters can clink steins filled with authentic German beers while enjoying live performances by bands specializing in German brass music.Â
Family-friendly activities abound, including a brat-eating competition, a crowd-pleasing wiener dog beauty pageant, and exciting games like cornhole. The festival features German Oktoberfest favorites to tantalize taste buds. Milwaukee Oktoberfest offers an authentic taste of Germany in the city’s heart via classic sausages, giant pretzels, relish schnitzel, tots, donuts, and delectable spätzle.
- Milwaukee Oktoberfest location: 520 E Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53202, United States
- Milwaukee Oktoberfest date: October (three-day celebration)
- Milwaukee Oktoberfest ticket: Free admissionÂ
Baraboo Oktoberfest, Wisconsin
Baraboo Oktoberfest invites all fans of hearty food, lively music, and frothy brews to enjoy the Bavarian tradition. This vibrant celebration is held on the historic grounds of Circus World in Baraboo, Wisconsin. It lasts from noon to night and offers a delightful afternoon and evening filled with authentic German traditions. The beer steins are filled with locally crafted Oktoberfest beers from Tumbled Rock Brewery and Al. Ringling Brewing Company.Â
The festival’s live music sets the festive mood, with the energetic polka tunes of Big Griffy Jim and the Polka Dots keeping your toes tapping. The Blue Olives take the stage as the headline act. Traditional pub games and costume contests add to the merriment, with prizes awarded for the most creative and authentic Bavarian attire. Delicious German dishes from food trucks round off a perfect day of celebrating fall and embracing the spirit of Gemütlichkeit.
- Baraboo Oktoberfest Location: 550 Water St, Baraboo, WI 53913, United States
- Baraboo Oktoberfest Date: September (one-day celebration)
- Baraboo Oktoberfest Ticket: Admission via ticket
Oktoberfest Appleton’s, Wisconsin
Oktoberfest Appleton in Wisconsin is a two-day festival filled with food and fun celebrating German traditions. This community celebration, entering its fifth decade, has a rich history of supporting local businesses and non-profit organizations. The festivities kick off with License to Cruise, a classic car show held on Friday evening. Then, on Saturday morning, a traditional Spaten beer toast launches the main event.Â
Over the weekend, attendees can explore over 100 food booths run by non-profits, browse a large arts and crafts market, and enjoy different entertainment options. With an estimated 200,000 Oktoberfesters attending annually, Appleton’s Octoberfest is a lively Wisconsin tradition. The highlight of this celebration is German beer sponsored by the Spaten Brau.
- Oktoberfest Appleton Location: 125 N Superior St, Appleton, WI 54911, United States
- Oktoberfest Appleton Date: September (one-day celebration)
- Oktoberfest Appleton Tickets: Free admission