We’ve got our lederhosen and dirndl dresses ready for some Oktoberfest celebrations! Whether you are looking for a one-day celebration or want to keep the party going all month long, we have the perfect event for you. Prost!
Des Moines Biergarten
Who says you have to pick one day to celebrate Oktoberfest or have German-style beer? Des Moines Biergarten will be open September 1 through October 8 at Water Works Park near Lauridsen Ampitheater. From the ownership group behind Dough Co. Pizza, this family-friendly pop-up themed beer garden will be open noon to 9 p.m. Wednesday – Sunday. You’ll be able to enjoy German (and craft) beers, German inspired eats, live music, yard games, and hammocks.
HALLtoberfest
Get Das BIER, the official Oktoberfest beer, straight from Munich, at HALLtoberfest happening September 9 at The Hall. Except Das MUSIK from three different live bands starting at 11 a.m. The JLF culinary students have created a menu with Schweinhaxen, Schnitzels, Wurstplatte, brats, pretzels, and more. And of course, there will be steins, a stein holding contest, and lederhosen and dirndl contest. Plus, the annual CyHawk game is happening this day, so don't miss cheering on your favorite team at the same time!
Oktoberfest on the Yard
Backpocket Pin & Pixel are hosting their very own two-day Oktoberfest experience! Start out on Friday, September 15 with a kids fun run, as well as a beer mile fun run. The party continues with live music from 7 – 9 p.m. If you haven't had enough fun after that, the party continues on Saturday, September 16. Start your morning by getting refreshed with Yoga on the Yard, and continue by getting your heart rate back up with a CyHawk watch party. There will also be a bags tournament, as well as live music.
Adventureland Oktoberfest
The annual 21 and older Oktoberfest event is back at Adventureland Park on September 16. You can ride rides throughout the day and enjoy traditional polka music, games, contests, and yes, beer. There will also be live music going around the park with The Pork Tornadoes headlining at the end of the evening. Tickets are the price of park admission (which is cheaper if you purchase online).
Des Moines Oktoberfest
It’s the grandaddy of them all, Des Moines’ original Oktoberfest returns this year to a new location, Waterworks Park, on September 22 and 23. The tapping of the Golden Keg kicks off the event at 3 p.m. on September 23. This year’s lineup features German beers, seasonal and craft beers in the Craft Beer Village, a Party Plaza, traditional German dance troupes, Bier Maiden contest, Stein Holding competition, German carnival games, and of course food. Tickets are $30 in advance and includes admission to both dates and a commemorative pint glass.
HILLtober Fest
Enjoy one last night of live music at Copper Creek Lake in Pleasant Hill. Celebrate the end of summer with performances from Jordan Beem (3 – 5 p.m.) and Kracklin (5 – 7 p.m.). Tickets are $12, and a drink ticket is included. Various food vendors will be onsite as well.
