Experience Authentic German Cuisine & Festivities at Minnesota’s Premier Oktoberfest Events
Much like you don't have to be Irish to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, you don't have to be German to take part in Oktoberfest.
This 200-year-old Bavarian tradition has grown far beyond its origins in Munich, with multiple celebrations held right here in Minnesota. So grab a stein, pull on some lederhosen and say Prost!, the German way.
New Ulm Oktoberfest
The biggest Oktoberfest in the state is in New Ulm, which was settled by German immigrants in 1854. Though this heritage is honored year-round, the celebration is at its peak during the two weekends of Oktoberfest. Polka and other bands keep the atmosphere lively, and kegs of locally brewed Schell's beer are tapped every night at 7 p.m.
Other entertainment includes horse-drawn trolley rides, specialty shops and food vendors downtown, and tours and other activities at Morgan Creek Vineyard and Schell's Brewery. Don't leave town before visiting the 45-foot-tall musical glockenspiel or the Hermann the German monument.
Greater Minnesota Oktoberfests
In Deerwood, Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge draws 5,000 people to its annual event in late October. Other cities that regularly host Oktoberfest celebrations include Shakopee, at its famed Minnesota Renaissance Festival, and Pelican Rapids.




