Grand Oktoberfest Destinations in Minnesota
All the Oktoberfest celebrations in Minnesota are giant, most taking place on weekends in September or October.
New Ulm Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest New Ulm has become a permanent tradition in Minnesota since 1981. This Beerfest celebration is a haven for all the Oktoberfest enthusiasts and is labeled this state’s “biggest Oktoberfest” of Minnesota. The historic downtown New Ulm transforms into a festival venue with lively music on different stages, a long list of German beers, and multiple vendors selling mouthwatering German food. Highlights of the New Ulm Oktoberfest is the Beer tent including German beers and local brews. Oktoberfest parade is another segment of the festival that is anticipated to be the most significant.
- New Ulm Oktoberfest Location: 2101 S Broadway St, New Ulm, MN 56073, United States
- New Ulm Oktoberfest Dates: October (four-day event)
- New Ulm Oktoberfest Tickets: Free admission
Twin Cities Oktoberfest
The Minnesota State Fairgrounds holds the Oktoberfest Twin Cities event, showcasing the best of the local brewing scene. Over 16 breweries participate, offering German-style beers and local seasonal brews. In addition to enjoying a cold pint of beer in your stein(the venue allows you to bring a mug), this Oktoberfest celebration in the Twin Cities features many vendors serving traditional German food (sausages, pretzels, and schnitzel) and some local fares like hotdogs and sandwiches.
Live music performances include only well-versed German-style bands. Both cash and credit cards are accepted to purchase entrance and beer tickets, and an ATM is also available at the venue if you run out of cash. The only rule of this venue is not to bring pets except for registered service dogs, and beer is served to anyone over 21.
- Twin Cities Oktoberfest Location: 1265 Snelling Ave N, St Paul, MN 55108, United States
- Twin Cities Oktoberfest Dates: October (two-day event)
- Twin Cities Oktoberfest Tickets: Entry on the ticket
Duluth Oktoberfest
Duluth Oktoberfest is a three-day celebration of Bavarian culture held annually on the shores of Lake Superior at Bayfront Festival Park. The Beerfest takes place annually in September or October, featuring a giant bier hall tent with authentic German beers sponsored by Paulner Brewery Munich, German food, and live music. Different games and activities are available, making Duluth Beerfest a fun-filled event for all ages in New Jersey. A “Family Day” is dedicated on Sundays with activities geared towards younger guests, like games, rides, contests, and a petting zoo.
The highlight of this event is the helicopter ride, which provides a birds-eye view of the Duluth Oktoberfest and the scenic Lake Superior area. The Wiener Dog race, sponsored by Lake County Veterinary Clinics, gives puppies and adult wieners a chance to run for a prize.
- Duluth Oktoberfest Location: Bayfront Festival Park (350 Harbor Drive, Duluth, MN 55802, United States
- Duluth Oktoberfest Dates: September (three-day event)
- Duluth Oktoberfest Tickets: Ticket entry only
Schell’s Oktoberfest
Schell’s Brewery throws a lively Oktoberfest celebration in Minnesota annually on the second Saturday of October. This event honors the rich German heritage of New Ulm, with the highest percentage of German ancestry in the US. Some of the highlights of this event include a festive ambiance and traditional German brass music. The delicious food (German and local), along with plenty of Schell’s Oktoberfest brew, a Märzen-style lager brewed specifically for the occasion, take center stage of this Beerfest. General admission is affordable, and the event is family-friendly, with activities for all ages.
- Schell’s Oktoberfest Location: 1860 Schell Road, New Ulm, MN 56073, United States
- Schell’s Oktoberfest Dates: October (one-day event)
- Schell’s Oktoberfest Tickets: Entry on Ticket