Unmissable Oktoberfest Celebrations in Los Angeles You Need to Attend This Year

The Oktoberfest tradition, which began in 1810 in Munich to celebrate the wedding of Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen and King Ludwig I, has found a vibrant home in Los Angeles. The city’s diverse cultural landscape has embraced this German festival, turning it into a significant event that brings together locals and tourists alike. Throughout September and October, various venues across Los Angeles host spirited Oktoberfest celebrations featuring spicy brats, lively oompah music, frosty steins, and delicious beer.

Top Oktoberfest Celebrations in Los Angeles

One of the most renowned Oktoberfest events in Los Angeles is the Alpine Oktoberfest at Alpine Village in Torrance. Known as the longest-running and biggest Oktoberfest in the city, this celebration offers an authentic German experience. The event is adults-only on Fridays and Saturdays, but families can join the fun on “Family Sundays.” Attendees can enjoy VIP treatment with the “Dine, Stein, No Line!” package, which includes immediate entry and a commemorative ceramic stein. The festival features Warsteiner beers and authentic German eats, and the party continues after midnight at the Alpine Steinhouse Restaurant.

In Orange County, the Old World Oktoberfest in Huntington Beach offers a prime Bavarian atmosphere. This little village feels like a storybook, with famous bratwurst, costumed shot girls, and activities such as Dachshund races and the Oktoberfest Parade. The festival runs on weekends from October 7th to October 29th, providing a buzzing atmosphere with German beers and live music.

The Fairplex in Pomona, home of the Los Angeles County Fair, transforms into a German wonderland every Friday and Saturday in October. Festival-goers can enjoy games, prizes, oompah music, and the Chicken Dance. The event offers a variety of German Hefeweizens and Oktoberfest brews, along with traditional German foods like bratwurst, knockwurst, sweet corn, potato pancakes, and pretzels. Music lovers can enjoy performances by DJ Schlagen, The Rheinlanders, and tribute bands like Led Zepagain, DSB, and Queen Nation.

For those seeking a vegan-friendly option, the Vegan Oktoberfest is a must-visit. Now in its third year, this event offers over 50 different beers and ciders, with unlimited pours from California brewing companies like Lagunitas, The Dudes, and Coronado. Food vendors provide vegan offerings, including Southern Fried Vegan, The Lobos Truck, The Grilled Cheese Truck, and Dogtown Dogs (soy style). The festival also features a stein holding contest, a costume contest, and performances by the Bavarian folk band Munich Boomsteiners and the ’80s and ’90s tribute band Knyght Ryder.

Family-Friendly Oktoberfest Events

Oktoberfest in Los Angeles is not just for adults. Many venues offer family-friendly events and activities to entertain younger attendees. From puppet shows to face painting, traditional games to kid-friendly food, Oktoberfest ensures a fun-filled experience for all ages. The Old World Oktoberfest in Huntington Beach, for example, hosts Kinderfest Sundays with activities like face painting, games, and the popular wiener dog race.

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest, running from September 7th to November 2nd, is another family-friendly event. Located in the forested town of Big Bear Lake, this annual festival highlights family, friendship, and togetherness. The event offers a free Big Bear Trolley service with over 30 bus stops in the Big Bear Valley, providing a safe and convenient transportation option for attendees.

Embracing Bavarian Culture

Oktoberfest in Los Angeles is more than just a party; it’s a cultural exchange. The festival provides an opportunity for attendees to learn about German traditions, taste Bavarian cuisine, and experience the camaraderie central to the Oktoberfest experience. Traditional games and contests, such as the spirited beer stein holding competition, polka dance-off, and festive costume contest, add fun and engagement to the celebrations.

The Wirtshaus German pub and restaurant in the heart of Los Angeles offers an intimate Oktoberfest experience. Known for its extensive beer selection, traditional German food, and live music, Wirtshaus provides a cozy and authentic Oktoberfest ambiance.

Our Advice on the City

For occasional travelers, we recommend visiting the Alpine Village Oktoberfest in Torrance for an authentic Bavarian experience. The event’s combination of traditional German music, food, and imported beers makes it a must-visit. Don’t forget to purchase the “Dine, Stein, No Line!” package for a hassle-free experience.

For expert travelers, consider exploring the Vegan Oktoberfest. This unique event offers a diverse selection of vegan beers and foods, providing a different perspective on the traditional Oktoberfest experience. It’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy the festival while adhering to a plant-based lifestyle.

In conclusion, Oktoberfest in Los Angeles offers a vibrant and authentic celebration that honors Bavarian roots while celebrating the cultural diversity of the city. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s an Oktoberfest event for everyone. So, dust off your lederhosen or dirndl, mark your calendar, and join Los Angeles in celebrating this beloved German tradition. Prost!